Australia has announced plans to collaborate with Norway’s Kongsberg Defence to manufacture long-range Naval Strike Missiles and Joint Strike Missiles in Newcastle, situated on the eastern coast of the country. This facility will be the only one outside of Norway.
Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy confirmed that the Australian government will invest A$850 million (approximately $573.8 million) to develop this manufacturing site at Newcastle Airport later this year. The anti-ship cruise missiles produced here will be utilized by the Australian Defence Force and will be one of only two facilities worldwide capable of such production.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by Australia to enhance its defence capabilities, particularly in long-range precision strike capabilities, amid increasing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, Australia is progressing in the development of a hypersonic missile through the AUKUS defence technology agreement with the United States and Britain, and it plans to begin co-manufacturing guided missiles with the United States next year.
Conroy’s office stated that the manufacturing facility in Newcastle will not only enhance Australia’s self-reliance and increase war stocks but also support the local economy and strengthen Australia’s defence industry.