The government announced on 26 April that it is committing $2.5 billion for Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise to manufacture guided weapons and their critical components, long-range strike missions, air defence missiles, 155mm artillery ammunition, sea mines, and other munitions in Australia.

The remaining $1.6 billion will be allocated to developing long-range strike capabilities by accelerating the delivery of additional High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), battle management and support systems, as well as accelerating acquisition of Precision Strike Missiles (PRISM) for multi-domain strike.

“Developing the Australian Defence Force’s ability to precisely strike targets at longer range and manufacture munitions in Australia” is one of the key principles outlined by the DSR.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the investment in key capabilities will see the Australian Army’s current range for artillery grow from 40 kilometres to in excess of 500 kilometres.

“My government commissioned the Defence Strategic Review to assess whether Australia had the necessary defence capability, posture, and preparedness to best defend Australia and its interests in the strategic environment we now face,” he said.

“We support the strategic direction and key findings set out in the review, which will strengthen our national security and ensure our readiness for future challenges.

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“The government will continue to invest in our capabilities and invest in our relationships to help build a more secure Australia and a more stable and prosperous region.”

The federal government is allocating more than $19 billion to meet the priorities set out in the government’s response to the review.

To find out more about the impact and opportunities of the Government's Defence Strategic Review, join us at the Defence Connect DSR Summit Day, reserve your tickets here (https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/dsr-summit/)

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.