Defense News ,Australia :- Australia is set to embark on a significant stride in its defense capabilities as it signs a groundbreaking $37.4 million deal with Lockheed Martin to initiate the local production of Canberra’s Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles in 2025. This move, a key outcome of the Defence Strategic Review, underscores the commitment of the Albanese Government to enhance Australia's sovereignty in the defense sector.
The agreement entails the transfer of technical data from the United States, along with the provision of engineering certifications and competency programs for the Australian workforce. Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles highlighted the importance of the contract, stating that it aligns with the government's strategic goals and sets the stage for a sovereign industry with opportunities for a highly-skilled workforce.
In addition to the GMLRS project, Australia aims to bolster its armed forces with Precision Strike Missiles (PrSMs), which will be fired from the new High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). Minister Pat Conroy emphasized that these advancements will significantly enhance the country's capabilities to precisely strike targets at longer ranges.
Lockheed Martin reports that the GMLRS boasts a range exceeding 70 kilometers (43.5 miles), while the PrSMs can reach targets between 60 and 499 kilometers (37.2 to 310 miles). Minister Conroy highlighted that this collaboration with Lockheed Martin is a crucial step in acquiring long-range precision strike capabilities, reinforcing the Australian Defence Force's ability to safeguard the nation and its interests.
The local production of GMLRS missiles is part of a broader 4.1-billion Australian dollar ($2.7 billion) investment announced under the Defence Strategic Review. In 2023, Australia appointed a new chief for the Australian Department of Defence team responsible for overseeing indigenous productions of GMLRS, guided weapons, and explosive assets. This move reflects the ongoing collaboration between Australia and the United States within the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise, a key outcome of the Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations in July 2023.
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