Australia's Missile Ambitions: Navigating Global Supply Challenges

Australia's push to enhance its missile capability faces delays due to global supply chain issues and high demand. The country's multi-billion-dollar defense strategy includes collaborations with U.S. and European companies to develop long-range hypersonic missiles. Efforts are underway to integrate Australian suppliers gradually.

Australia's ambitions to bolster its missile capabilities are encountering setbacks as the nation's defense industry grapples with global supply shortages and increasing demand due to the Ukraine conflict and heightened European defense spending.

The Albanese government's pledge of A$74 billion for missile acquisition is part of Australia's strategic response to China's military expansion. Key deals have been struck with giants like Lockheed Martin, Kongsberg, and Raytheon, despite challenges in fulfilling the orders promptly.

Tim Cahill, Lockheed Martin's vice president, emphasized the importance of hypersonic missile development for Australia's northern defense at the Avalon Air Show. However, supply chain limitations mean Australian components will only be gradually incorporated into local production setups, according to industry executives.

(With inputs from agencies.)