BREAKING: Kongsberg Missile Factory to Revolutionize Australian Defense
UPDATE: The first missile factory in Australia, located in Williamtown, is primed to become a game-changer for the nation’s defense capabilities. With site preparations now complete, Kongsberg Defence is set to begin operations in a secure $850 million facility, expected to produce advanced missiles starting in 2027.
The facility will be one of only two worldwide capable of manufacturing both the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) and the Joint Strike Missile (JSM). Kongsberg’s long-range, land-based maritime strike option, dubbed the StrikeMaster, will play a pivotal role in enhancing Australia’s military strength.
WHY IT MATTERS: This factory not only signifies a major boost to local employment, creating 100 direct jobs, but also opens up substantial opportunities within the supply chain. The facility’s strategic location in the Hunter region underscores its importance in national defense initiatives.
The StrikeMaster NSM Coastal Defence System will be housed in a twin-pack launcher on the Australian Bushmaster vehicle, manufactured at Thales Australia’s Bendigo plant. Kongsberg Defence’s spokeswoman confirmed that the Australian government is evaluating this option for equipping the Army with enhanced long-range capabilities as part of Project LAND 8113 Phase 2.
As the government weighs its options, including Lockheed Martin Australia’s Precision Strike Missile, the decision is anticipated by the end of this year. A Defence spokesman noted that details remain confidential due to ongoing tender processes.
PRODUCTION TIMELINE AND IMPACT
The 9,000 square-metre factory is on track for completion next year, with missile production commencing in 2027. Should Kongsberg be selected for the project, the manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing of the StrikeMaster will occur across secure facilities in Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales. The Army’s 10th Brigade at the Edinburgh Defence Precinct in South Australia will operate the new missiles, further solidifying the region’s role in national defense.
Key components of the StrikeMaster are already in use by the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The NSM, which began deployment with the Royal Australian Navy in 2024, boasts a range exceeding 300 kilometres and can engage targets without emitting detectable signals.
Regardless of the federal government’s choice, the NSM and JSM will enter production in Newcastle by 2027 to meet both ADF requirements and support international demands. The NSM is already operational in 14 countries, further emphasizing the global significance of this development.
Kongsberg’s initiative exemplifies a strategic move towards enhanced local manufacturing capabilities in defense, promising not only military advancements but also stimulating economic growth in the region.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and the government’s decision approaches. The implications of this factory extend far beyond local employment; they touch on national security, technological advancement, and global military positioning.
For ongoing coverage, follow updates from credible sources and stay informed about this significant development in Australia’s defense landscape.
