Missiles made in Australia will now include more locally-made components as Australia takes the next step in establishing a domestic missile manufacturing industry.
The Albanese Government has signed a contract with Lockheed Martin Australia to begin domestic manufacturing key guided weapons components, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to establish a sovereign guided weapons industry and a future made in Australia.
Lockheed Martin will initially work with two Melbourne companies, Moog Australia and AW Bell, to deliver key parts for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missile system. Worth $120 million in total, the contract will create dozens of new jobs and open pathways for Australian‑made components to enter the global supply chain, supporting export opportunities and long-term industry growth.
Moog Australia has been selected to design and build a GMLRS Control Actuation System. This system helps steer the missile accurately during flight to hit long-range targets with precision. Engineers from Australia and the United States will take part in an exchange program to share critical knowledge and skills, supporting long‑term sovereign capability development.
AW Bell has been selected to manufacture the missile’s canards – or exterior fins – and housing for the Control Actuation System. AW Bell is currently developing test versions of the canards.
A Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rocket (image: TB&P)
The contract signing follows the start of domestic missile manufacturing in December 2025 and the first test firing of the Australian-made precision surface-to-surface missiles earlier this year.
Under the Government’s 2024 Australian Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Plan, more than $500 million will be invested through to 2030 to boost local manufacturing and increase the use of Australian‑made components.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:
“This is another example of the Albanese Government’s commitment to a future made in Australia and jobs for locals. This contract backs Australian industry and its capacity to contribute to making world-class capabilities right here at home.
“The domestic manufacturing of missiles will be complemented by the development of these key component-manufacturing capabilities.
“This will boost sovereign manufacturing, creating secure jobs and strengthen our national security.”
(Aus DoD)
