Robert Dougherty
The federal government has announced plans for the rapid establishment of domestic manufacturing for missiles, munitions – including producing up to 100,000 artillery ammunition rounds a year by the end of the decade.
The federal government, on 30 October, announced French defence company Thales has been selected as the preferred tenderer to build a new domestic forging capability for 155mm M795 artillery ammunition.
The 155mm M795 artillery ammunitions are used by Australia, the United States and other international partners for the M777A2 light towed howitzer, a critical close fires capability.
Defence will work with Thales as the preferred company to build, establish and commission the forge at the Commonwealth-owned Benalla Munitions facility. This project is expected to support at least 550 jobs.
The forge will produce 15,000 rounds each year by 2028, with capacity to produce up to 100,000 for global consumption. It will also be the first dedicated forge outside of the United States that will manufacture 155mm M795 artillery ammunition.
“Today’s announcement is another example of the Albanese government’s commitment to developing a more capable military force while also supporting a future made in Australia,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.
“In our rapidly evolving strategic circumstances, the ADF must be equipped with capabilities that can hold adversaries at risk.
“The 2024 National Defence Strategy affirmed the need to invest in munitions to build stocks, strengthen supply chains and support a domestic manufacturing capability.