U.S. defense technology company Anduril Industries has officially opened a new 7,400-square-metre manufacturing facility in Sydney, marking a major milestone in Australia’s push to strengthen its sovereign defense capabilities. The site will produce advanced Ghost Shark undersea drones, part of a A$1.7 billion ($1.1 billion) contract awarded by the Australian government in September to co-develop a fleet of these cutting-edge autonomous vessels for the Royal Australian Navy.
The Ghost Shark program, spanning the next five years, aims to enhance Australia’s undersea warfare and surveillance capabilities by introducing dozens of stealthy, long-range autonomous submarines. The first Ghost Shark prototype has already been completed ahead of schedule and is set to undergo in-water testing before its planned delivery in January. Once operational, these drones could also be exported to the United States and allied nations, pending government approval.
Anduril’s Sydney plant is expected to reach full production by 2026, creating approximately 150 high-skilled local jobsand strengthening Australia’s defense manufacturing ecosystem. The project will also involve over 40 Australian suppliers providing critical components, materials, and technical expertise to support the production line.
According to David Goodrich, CEO of Anduril Australia, the launch represents “a defining moment in our mission to bring sovereign undersea capability to Australia.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting national security and allied cooperation through local production.
Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy praised the initiative, noting that the Ghost Shark project will boost domestic manufacturing, create well-paid defense sector jobs, and reinforce Australia’s position as a key partner in advanced military technology.