Australia has just hitched a ride on the Lockheed Martin rocket, signing a deal worth AU$37.4-million ($24.7 million) to manufacture their own Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles.

The contract, announced by Aussie Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, is like a shot of adrenaline for the nation’s defense capabilities.

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of this agreement, dissect what it means for the Land Down Under’s defense industry, and zoom out to see how it ripples across their national security.

So, picture this: Canberra is gearing up to roll out its very own GMLRS missiles straight from the local production line by 2025.

The deal includes a sweet transfer of technical data from the US and a curriculum of engineering certifications and competency programs to upskill the Aussie workforce.

It’s not just business; it’s about building a sovereign defense industry and giving the locals a shot at the action.

Deputy Prime Minister Marles is singing the victory song, saying, “Signing this contract with Lockheed Martin Australia to begin the manufacturing of GMLRS in Australia from 2025 is another example of the Albanese Government delivering key outcomes of the Defence Strategic Review.”

“These are important milestones which will see Australia gain the technology we need to establish a sovereign industry, providing opportunities for a highly-skilled workforce,” said Marles.

Bolstering Defense Capabilities: Precision in Action

Now, let’s talk about beefing up defense capabilities. This GMLRS missile project is like a piece of the puzzle in Australia’s grand strategy to level up its defense game.

Pat Conroy, the Australian Defence Industry Minister, spilled the beans, revealing that these GMLRS missiles, coupled with the future Precision Strike Missiles (PrSMs), are the keys to hitting targets at extended distances.

According to Lockheed Martin, the GMLRS has a sweet range of over 70 kilometers (43.5 miles), while the PrSMs can go the extra mile, reaching out between 60 and 499 kilometers (37 to 310 miles).

These aren’t just fancy numbers; they’re the backbone of the Australian Defence Force’s plan to safeguard the nation and its interests.

Financial Investment and Collaboration: Dollars and Sense in Defense

Now, let’s talk dollars and sense. The local production gig in Canberra is part of a massive budgeted initiative – a remarkable AU$4.1-billion ($2.7 billion) as outlined in the Defence Strategic Review.

This isn’t just a couple of coins in the piggy bank; it’s a hefty investment, showing that Australia means business when it comes to building up its defense capabilities.

In 2023, they appointed a new chief to head the Aussie Department of Defence team, and guess what they’re overseeing?

GMLRS Munitions
M270 GMLRS rocket (Image source: Lockheed Martin)

Indigenous production of not just GMLRS missiles but also other guided weapons and explosive assets.

It’s like putting the locals in charge of the fireworks – a bold move that screams confidence.

And here’s the kicker – this isn’t just Australia going solo. It’s a dance with Uncle Sam.

The ongoing collaboration with the United States, as part of the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise, is a nod to the mateship.

It’s like saying, “G’day, America, we’re in this together.”

Minister Conroy, the man of the hour, said, “This work is a clear demonstration of the ongoing collaboration between Australia and the United States on Australia’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise – a key outcome of the Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations in July 2023.”

Translation: mateship is alive and well.

In Conclusion: Australia’s Strategic Defense Move

In conclusion, Australia’s dance with Lockheed Martin for local GMLRS missile production is a giant leap toward flexing their own defense muscles.

It’s not just about the missiles; it’s about jobs, skills, and a statement of self-reliance.

The tag team with the United States is like having a buddy in the trenches – you watch my back, and I’ll watch yours.

As Australia pushes the pedal on defense investment, the local production of guided missiles is their way of saying, “We’re not just playing defense; we’re playing to win.”