Acquisition of Joint Strike Missile to boost Australia’s Long-Range Strike Capability

The Albanese Government is further accelerating Australia’s long-range strike capability through the acquisition of the Joint Strike Missile (JSM) from 2025. 

The Government and Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace have signed a $142 million contract to deliver the JSM for use by the Australian Defence Force.

The JSM is designed to allow the missile to fit into the F-35A Lightning II internal weapon bay, preserving the aircraft’s stealth characteristics. 

With a range of more than 275 kilometres, the JSM’s low-altitude sea-skimming flight profile helps it delay detection and engagement by a target’s defence system.  

The accelerated acquisition was announced today alongside Norway’s Minister of Defence, Bjørn Arild Gram, at the opening of Kongsberg Defence Australia’s new $25 million manufacturing facility in Mawson Lakes, South Australia. 

Kongsberg’s new South Australian facility will have the capacity to employ up to 150 workers and will assemble launchers for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) using mostly Australian‑manufactured components, creating 20 new local jobs.

This announcement follows the Government’s recent commitment to partner with Kongsberg Defence Australia for the construction of a new facility at the Newcastle Airport precinct capable of manufacturing and maintaining the NSM and JSM – creating more than 500 jobs in the construction phase and delivering almost $100 million in economic benefits to the local area. 

These activities are part of the Albanese Government’s investment in the GWEO Enterprise, underpinned by a commitment in Defence’s Integrated Investment Program of $16 to $21 billion over the next decade.

The Albanese Government continues to deliver on the rapid establishment of domestic missile manufacturing and accelerate the acquisition of long-range strike capability, advancing our national security through a future made in Australia.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles:

“The Albanese Government’s investment in long-range strike capabilities for the Australian Defence Force is central to our ability to protect Australia’s security and advance our national interests. 

“This announcement builds on our commitment to enhance the ADF’s ability to precisely strike targets at a longer range, while also manufacturing more in Australia. 

“Whether it is in Newcastle or Adelaide, the Government is committed to working with industry to support more local jobs, deliver the capabilities needed to keep Australians safe and build a future made in Australia.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy:

“Signing this contract with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace to fast-track the acquisition of Joint Strike Missile to 2025 is another example of the Albanese Government moving quickly to acquire the capabilities needed to keep Australians safe. 

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the strong partnership between Australia, Norway and Kongsberg to expedite and uplift guided weapons capabilities.

“Kongsberg Defence Australia’s new facility creates Australian jobs, work for Australian companies and economic benefits for local communities.

“The Norwegian Government and Kongsberg share our vision for a stronger and more assured global supply chain for guided weapons, and we look forward to continuing to work together in support of the rules-based international order.”

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