Australia joins forces with Kongsberg to establish first missile factory

The Australian government has signed a contract with Kongsberg Defence Australia to establish the country’s first guided weapons production factory in Newcastle.

As informed, the factory, to be built at the Newcastle Airport precinct, will manufacture and service the naval strike missile and joint strike missile for the Australian defense forces.

Missile production at the factory is anticipated to start in 2027. Based on current schedules, the new Australian facility will be the first outside of Norway to manufacture and maintain both the naval strike missile and the joint strike missile.

This is the next step towards implementing the announcement made by the Australian Government in August 2024.

Specifically, the project reflects ongoing investment outlined in the Australian Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Plan, underpinned by a commitment in the Defence Integrated Investment Program of $16 to $21 billion over the next decade.

“This world-class factory is an Australian-first and, based on current schedules, will be the first outside of Norway to manufacture and maintain both the Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile. It will supply missiles for both the ADF and international partners, enhancing regional security and contributing to stronger and more assured global supply chain for guided weapons,” Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance, Air Marshal Leon Phillips said.