UPDATE: Australia has officially opened a new missile manufacturing facility in Port Wakefield, marking a historic moment for the nation’s defence industry. The facility, located at the Proof Range, is now the only site outside the United States authorized to produce the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), with a striking range of over 70 kilometers. This significant development comes as the nation aims to bolster its military capabilities in response to evolving global threats.
The facility was inaugurated today, December 5, 2025, by key officials including Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy and South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas. They were joined by RAAF Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Air Marshal Leon Phillips and executives from Lockheed Martin, including Vice President and General Manager of Tactical Missiles Paula Hartley and Vice President of Production Operations Jennifer McManus.
Minister Conroy emphasized the importance of this facility, stating, “This is a red-letter day for the Australian defence industry and the defence of the nation.” He highlighted that just over a year ago, the government unveiled the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Plan, paving the way for domestic missile production. “In a few days’ time, production of missiles in Australia will start,” he confirmed, underscoring Australia’s commitment to enhancing its sovereign defence capabilities.
Premier Malinauskas added that the new facility would not only support approximately 20 on-site manufacturing jobs, but also create hundreds more across the national supply chain. He noted, “This is a capability that will dramatically improve the army’s capacity to defend our nation.”
Lockheed Martin’s Paula Hartley described the launch as a pivotal moment, stating, “We’re not just cutting a ribbon today – we’re cutting a path to a stronger, more sovereign Australian defence capability.” The facility’s opening is a crucial step in Australia’s strategy to acquire more long-range strike systems, significantly reducing reliance on overseas suppliers.
In preparation for this launch, the first cohort of Australian workers has completed training at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Arkansas, USA. This strategic move aligns with Australia’s broader objectives to enhance its military readiness and establish a more independent defence industry.
As the world watches, the implications of this facility’s opening extend beyond local employment; it symbolizes Australia’s growing role in global security initiatives. The development of homegrown missile systems will be critical as nations reassess their defence strategies in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape.
For further updates on this rapidly evolving story, stay tuned as Australia embarks on a new chapter in its defence capabilities. The production of missiles is set to commence shortly, making this a pivotal moment for both the nation and its allies.
