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Australia and the United States have signed a memorandum of understanding for production, sustainment and follow-on development of Precision Strike Missiles.
The agreement provides the Australian Defence Force with access to Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM) munitions and establishes PrSM as a cooperative program between Australia and the United States.
The surface-to-surface munitions can be fired from High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launch vehicles.
In addition, new cooperative program is expected to open the door for Australian industry participation in the PrSM supply chain, including for locally manufactured components and sub-components. It could also potentially provide options for future domestic manufacturing and maintenance of PrSM in Australia, with negotiations on options expected to commence later this year.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth welcomed the signing of the MOU during their meeting on the sidelines of the Shangri‑La Dialogue last month.
“Australia’s capability and technology cooperation with the United States is a critical part of our alliance,” Deputy PM Marles said.
“The Albanese government’s investment in the Precision Strike Missile will expand and accelerate land-based long-range strike capabilities.
“This will enable deterrence against potential threats and ensure the Australian Defence Force is equipped to meet our strategic circumstances and keep Australians safe.”
The Department of Defence has confirmed more than $310 million will be contributed over 10 years to become a full cooperative partner in the PrSM program, and more than $150 million invested over the next five years to acquire the initial quantities of the capability required to establish the first Long Range Fires Regiment.
“This demonstrates our commitment to deliver on priorities outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy, to accelerate acquisition of long-range land and maritime strike capabilities and adopt a Strategy of Denial,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said.
“Through this cooperative program, the Australian Army will contribute to and acquire the latest technology required to counter current and future threats.
“This is another example of the Albanese government working with the United States to increase opportunities for Australian industry in global supply chains.”
The Australian federal government has taken the next important step towards increasing the Australian Defence Force’s long-range strike capabilities and supporting domestic defence industry, with the establishment of a new cooperative program with the United States for the PrSM.
