Missile Factory Confirmed for Newcastle, First of Its Kind in Australia

The announcement marks a key step in delivering the Australian Government’s commitment, first outlined in August 2024, to establish domestic missile production capabilities. The state-of-the-art factory will be built at the Newcastle Airport precinct and will manufacture and maintain the Naval Strike Missile and the Joint Strike Missile.

Production is expected to begin in 2027, and according to current plans, this will be the first facility outside of Norway to build and service both missile types.

Air Marshal Leon Phillips, Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance, described the project as a milestone for Australia’s defence industry.

“This world-class factory is an Australian first,” he said. “It will supply missiles for both the ADF and international partners, enhancing regional security and contributing to a stronger and more assured global supply chain for guided weapons.”

The initiative forms part of the Australian Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Plan, which includes an investment of between $16 billion and $21 billion over the next decade under the Defence Integrated Investment Program.

Air Marshal Phillips also acknowledged the importance of Australia’s ongoing collaboration with the Norwegian Government and defence contractor Kongsberg, saying the project would not be possible without these established relationships.

The new facility is expected to bring advanced defence manufacturing to the Hunter region, contributing to national security efforts while also creating new local employment opportunities in the defence sector.