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WA Minister for Defence Industries Paul Papalia CSC has announced a memorandum of understanding between the West Australian government and General Dynamics Mission Systems to fast-track local businesses into the Virginia Class supply chain.
The WA Cook government has sealed a landmark deal with a global defence powerhouse, a move set to bolster Western Australia’s defence industry and ensure the state’s economy remains a national frontrunner.
Defence forms a cornerstone of the Cook government’s Made in WA initiative, which aims to ramp up local manufacturing, create jobs and diversify the economy. Experts predict the sector will rank as Western Australia’s second largest industry, providing a crucial buffer against downturns in the resources market.
Minister Papalia hailed the announcement. “This MOU with General Dynamics is a major milestone for the WA defence industry as we continue to strengthen the pivotal role our state plays in the AUKUS partnership. Having our local businesses interact with and learn alongside General Dynamics Mission Systems Inc will give them the opportunity to be at the forefront of the Virginia Class supply chain,” he said.
During a successful trip to the United States, Minister Papalia signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with General Dynamics Mission Systems Inc – a subsidiary of General Dynamics, the world’s fifth-largest defence contractor with recognised expertise in submarine design, manufacturing, delivery and sustainment. An associated division, General Dynamics Electric Boat, is responsible for constructing Virginia Class submarines for the US Navy and is part of the broader US team collaborating with Australia on achieving AUKUS Pillar I objectives.
The new agreement is expected to fast-track Western Australian companies already manufacturing critical components for Australian submarines into the Virginia Class supply chain while boosting local skills and knowledge.
Meanwhile, the federal government is investing tens of billions of dollars in projects across the state. Major initiatives include creating the Henderson Defence Precinct, upgrading facilities at HMAS Stirling, establishing nuclear-powered submarine sustainment and maintaining continuous shipbuilding operations – all of which are forecast to support around 10,000 jobs.
“Defence is a key element of our Made in WA plan, and our local industry can help increase US submarine construction capacity,” Minister Papalia added.
Leading a delegation of WA businesses on the mission, Minister Papalia met with key defence industry figures and US officials in Washington DC, Alabama and Virginia. The trip aimed to strengthen international relationships and position Western Australia’s defence capabilities on the global stage, culminating in the signing of this significant MOU.
