The Australian Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Norway aimed at supporting the acquisition and domestic manufacturing of missiles in Australia, as part of broader efforts to strengthen national self-reliance and regional security.
According to the Australian Department of Defence, the agreement expands cooperation between Australia, Norway and 10 other nations that operate the Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile systems developed by Norwegian defence company Kongsberg.
The arrangement is intended to improve information sharing and collaboration among participating countries while supporting Australia’s ambition to become a regional missile production hub.
The Department of Defence said the Strike Missile Family MoU aligns with Australia’s plans to acquire, manufacture and maintain the Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile under the 2026 National Defence Strategy and the 2024 Australian Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Plan.
Under the initiative, the Albanese Government is investing up to $850 million to establish local manufacturing and sustainment capability for the missile systems and key components.
This includes construction of a missile manufacturing facility in Newcastle, which is expected to begin producing missiles for the Australian Defence Force and partner nations from 2027.
The government said the measures form part of a broader commitment of up to $36 billion over the next decade to accelerate the acquisition and manufacture of longer-range munitions in Australia under the 2026 Integrated Investment Program.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said the investment was aimed at strengthening Australia’s defence capability and industrial base.
“The Albanese Government is investing up to $36 billion over the next decade to make missiles in Australia and uplift our weapons stocks, making our nation more self-reliant and resilient,” Conroy said.
He added that the arrangement would also support local industry participation and employment.
“This arrangement will support local jobs and a defence future made in Australia by enabling domestic manufacturing through cooperation with international partners,” he said.
