FBR’s Cash Crunch and Contract Risks Amid Ambitious Robotics Expansion

Robotic Construction Breakthrough in Northern Territory

FBR Limited, the Australian robotics innovator, has taken a major step forward by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to supply its Hadrian X® robotic bricklaying unit to Habitat NT, a Darwin-based construction company. The initial purchase order is valued at A$7.8 million, marking a significant commercial milestone for FBR’s flagship product. Habitat NT plans to deploy the Hadrian X® to address the Northern Territory’s acute housing shortage, particularly supporting residential and defence infrastructure projects around Darwin.

The Hadrian X® unit, currently being commissioned in Western Australia, is expected to be delivered in the second half of 2025. This deal not only validates FBR’s technology but also highlights the growing demand for automation in construction to accelerate building rates and supplement manual labour shortages in regional Australia.

Expanding Horizons – Shipbuilding Automation and New Product Launch

Beyond construction, FBR is broadening its technological footprint through an Engineering Services Agreement with global shipbuilding giant Samsung Heavy Industries. This partnership aims to develop automation solutions leveraging FBR’s Dynamic Stabilisation Technology (DST®) to enhance shipbuilding processes. The first phase involves a physical demonstration of a shipbuilding robot module, anticipated to complete by late 2025, potentially opening a new commercial avenue for FBR’s robotics expertise.

Complementing this, FBR has introduced the Mantis, a DST®-enabled large-scale welding robot designed for heavy fabrication industries including mining, shipbuilding, and defence manufacturing. Mantis aims to mitigate skilled labour shortages and improve efficiency in these sectors, leveraging the same core technology proven in Hadrian X®. Early engagement with potential customers is underway, signaling promising commercial interest.

Financial Restructuring and Intellectual Property Strength

FBR has executed a comprehensive cost rationalisation program, targeting a 70% reduction in annual operating expenses to ensure sustainability while advancing revenue growth. The company raised A$6.3 million through placements earlier in 2025 and has since improved its cash position to A$1.4 million following asset sales and funding draws.

On the intellectual property front, FBR maintains a robust portfolio of approximately 400 global IP rights, with ongoing patent applications for next-generation Hadrian X® units and the newly launched Mantis robot. The company is actively exploring licensing opportunities to monetise its technology beyond direct sales.

US Market and Leadership Updates

FBR continues to engage with US stakeholders, including builders and financiers, to explore Wall as a Service® opportunities and potential deployment of Hadrian X® units. While no firm contracts have yet been announced, expressions of interest indicate a receptive market.

Leadership changes include the appointment of Mark Pivac as CEO, bringing deep technical expertise as a co-founder and inventor, and Shannon Robinson as Chair, reinforcing governance with extensive corporate experience. These appointments align with FBR’s strategic focus on commercialisation and operational efficiency.