Lockheed Martin has announced a significant expansion of its agreement with Australia regarding the local production of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles.
The updated deal allows Canberra to manufacture the rocket motors and warheads for the GMLRS missiles, which will be produced locally.
Under the original agreement signed earlier this year, the country was only permitted to assemble the missiles with components sourced from the US.
This arrangement has been compared to assembling flatpack furniture, where individual pieces are assembled by the user.
“The global supply of solid rocket motors is under stress. We need partners globally in order to be successful,” Lockheed VP for international integration Ken Kota said.
Chosen Supplier
Thales Australia has been designated as the primary supplier of the rocket motors and explosive warheads for the Australian-manufactured GMLRS missiles.
Its facilities in Victoria and New South Wales are expected to produce the first locally-made GMLRS components.
CEO Jeff Connolly stated that his company is well-prepared to meet not only Australian missile requirements but also global demand.
“We started the discussion about what it would take to make a rocket motor and warhead for GMLRS as a start point,” he said. “People would like to tell you that Australia can’t do it – well it’s already there.”
Thales Australia has a proven track record in producing explosive ordnance, including the BLU-111 bombs, which were introduced into the Royal Australian Air Force in 2022.