Australia is moving to build its own missile components, as NIOA renewed a strategic agreement with L3Harris Technologies to expand local production of rocket motors, warheads, and other guided weapons systems.
The deal builds on a 2023 partnership aimed at establishing sovereign production of solid rocket motors and warheads, key parts used in modern missile systems.
Officials said the renewed agreement aligns with Canberra’s broader push to strengthen its defense industrial base under the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) plan, which targets local manufacturing capability by 2030.
Production plans focus on critical propulsion and warhead components used in systems such as cruise missiles and air defense interceptors.
L3Harris already supplies propulsion systems for a range of US and allied programs, including those linked to Australia’s recent foreign military sales.
“Contemporary conflict in the Middle East and in parts of Europe have clearly illustrated the extraordinary consumption rates of guided weapons and interceptor missiles,” NIOA Group CEO Rob Nioa said.
Australia Expands Domestic Defense Manufacturing
Australia has steadily increased investment in local weapons production through partnerships with major defense firms, with several projects moving from planning to execution in the past two years.
In December 2025, Lockheed Martin Australia began operations at a new facility in South Australia to support production of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System munitions.
The site marked the first time such systems were assembled outside the US and is expected to expand local manufacturing over time.
That project forms part of the GWEO enterprise, backed by up to 21 billion Australian dollars ($15 billion) in government funding to build a sovereign missile industry and strengthen supply chains.
Alongside Lockheed Martin, other major defense firms have been integrated into Australia’s manufacturing push. Partnerships with companies such as Raytheon and Kongsberg have focused on expanding local production of missile components and supporting long-term sustainment capabilities tied to allied systems.
