Australia Boosts Long-Range Strike Power with Missile Production
The Albanese Government has taken a significant step towards bolstering Australia’s long-range strike capability by announcing plans to manufacture Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles domestically. A contract worth $37.4 million has been signed between the Australian Defense and Lockheed Martin Australia to kickstart the production of GMLRS missiles in Australia from 2025. This contract marks the beginning of a larger-scale initiative to establish domestic missile manufacturing within the country.
The agreement with Lockheed Martin Australia will facilitate the transfer of technical data from the United States, establish engineering certification processes, and help in building the necessary technical skills of the Australian workforce. This move is part of the Australian Government’s $4.1 billion investment aimed at enhancing Defense capabilities and acquiring more long-range strike systems, including the Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), which can engage targets up to 500km away. Both the GMLRS and PrSM missiles can be fired from HIMARS launchers.
Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP, expressed his satisfaction with the contract, stating, Signing this contract with Lockheed Martin Australia to begin the manufacturing of GMLRS in Australia from 2025 is another example of the Albanese Government delivering key outcomes of the Defense Strategic Review. He further emphasized the importance of establishing a sovereign industry and creating opportunities for a highly-skilled workforce.
Acting Minister for Defense and Minister for Defense Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP, also highlighted the significance of this announcement. This important first step towards the establishment of domestic guided weapons manufacturing in Australia will complement the acquisition of long-range precision strike capabilities and strengthen the ADF’s ability to protect Australia and its interests, said Minister Conroy.
The decision to ramp up missile production in Australia aligns with the country’s commitment to establish domestic manufacturing capabilities while simultaneously enhancing its long-range strike power. By manufacturing missiles locally, Australia can reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and ensure greater control over its defense capabilities.
These developments are a testament to the ongoing collaboration between Australia and the United States, as well as the positive outcomes of the Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations held in July 2023. The Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise, which was a key outcome of these consultations, aims to strengthen the partnership between the two countries in the field of guided weapons.
As the Albanese Government continues to deliver on its strategic goals, Australia moves closer to achieving a sovereign missile manufacturing industry. This will not only bolster the country’s defense capabilities but also drive the growth of a skilled workforce. With a focus on long-range strike systems, Australia aims to protect its national security and the well-being of its immediate region.
In summary, the contract between the Australian Defense and Lockheed Martin Australia to manufacture GMLRS missiles domestically marks a significant step towards establishing a sovereign missile manufacturing industry in Australia. This move aligns with the country’s commitment to enhancing its long-range strike capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. With an investment of $4.1 billion, Australia aims to strengthen its defense capabilities and protect its national security interests.
