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Kongsberg Defence Australia has officially joined the Australian Made Campaign, with its locally produced Naval Strike Missile (NSM) launcher systems now proudly bearing the iconic green and gold kangaroo logo.
The company is manufacturing the advanced missile launchers at its production and maintenance facility in Mawson Lakes, South Australia, using a range of Australian-made components supplied by local defence and manufacturing firms.
Key components include launcher canisters built by Adelaide-based Aerobond Defence, which specialises in advanced composite manufacturing, and precision-machined parts produced by QPE Advanced Machining, also in Adelaide.
The launcher frame and rail assemblies are being supplied by Victorian manufacturer Marand, with additional machined components provided by another Victorian supplier.
Kongsberg Defence Australia managing director John Fry said joining the Australian Made Campaign was a testament to the capability of the nation’s defence industry and the company’s commitment to local production.
“The Australian Made logo reflects the skills and capability of our local industry. We’re proud that world-class defence capability is being built right here in Australia – not only for the Australian Defence Force but also for our international partners,” Fry said.
Fry added that the initiative reinforces Kongsberg Defence Australia’s expanding role within Kongsberg’s global supply chain and demonstrates the growing export potential of Australia’s defence manufacturing base.
Australian Made Campaign chief executive Ben Lazzaro welcomed Kongsberg Defence Australia as a new licensee, saying the company exemplifies the strengths of Australia’s advanced manufacturing sector.
“Australia is a leader in technology, defence and advanced manufacturing, so it’s no surprise that Kongsberg Defence Australia has chosen to manufacture here. Our ability to produce to the highest standards makes Australia a natural choice for the growing defence manufacturing sector,” Lazzaro said.
The milestone marks the first time NSM launchers have been produced outside Europe or the United States, underscoring Australia’s growing importance in the global defence supply chain.
Kongsberg Defence Australia has already secured its first export order for Australian-made NSM launchers to be delivered to European customers – a significant achievement for the nation’s defence industry.
