Lockheed Martin GMLRS launch: Lockheed Martin, its Australian business, the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Group, and the Australian Army have taken an important step in Australia’s defence plan. On April 9, they carried out a live-fire test at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. What made this special was that the missile used in the test was made in Australia.
The firing was helped by the 14th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, which is part of the Australian Army’s 10th Brigade. The purpose of the event was to show that work on Australia’s own guided weapons manufacturing is moving ahead. In simple words, this test was not just about firing a missile. It was also proof that Australia is slowly building the people, factories, and systems needed to make these weapons at home.
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A Big First for Australia’s HIMARS Program
This launch was the first time an Australian-made Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System, or GMLRS, was fired from an Australian High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, also called HIMARS. The GMLRS is the main missile used by Australia’s HIMARS launchers. It is built to hit targets with accuracy and it can travel more than 70 kilometres.
Jeremy King, Chief Executive of Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand, said “This is an outstanding achievement.” He added: “We have worked closely with Defence to make ready the Port Wakefield facility and produce the first GMLRS outside the United States—all within two years. This speed to capability aligns with the Government’s GWEO objectives and is a testament to the outstanding collaborative work of the Australian team and our U.S. colleagues.”
That statement shows why the event matters so much. Australia did not just test a missile. It also showed that the Port Wakefield site is now playing a real part in missile work. Making the first GMLRS outside the United States is a major milestone.
Engineers, Technology, and Future Production
The missiles used in this effort were put together and delivered by Australian engineers who were trained at Lockheed Martin’s production sites in the United States. After learning there, they came back to Australia and helped set up the production line at Port Wakefield. It is also about training local workers and sharing know-how so Australia can build its own skilled defence workforce.
The first batch of locally made GMLRS and the successful live-fire event completed the last milestone in the Guided Weapons Production Capability Risk Reduction Activity contract. This program was carried out through work between Lockheed Martin, the United States Government, the Australian Government, Defence, and Australian industry partners.
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Gaylia Campbell, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin Tactical Missiles, said “Lockheed Martin is proud to be at the forefront of bringing advanced manufacturing technology to Australia and we look forward to working closely with the Australian Government, Defence and industry partners to continue building a domestic guided weapons manufacturing industry.”
What this means for Australia and its Allies?
Starting GMLRS production in Australia supports the government’s wider defence goals. It helps build local manufacturing strength, makes supply chains stronger, and helps increase missile stockpiles. It also gives more chances for Australian industry to be part of serious defence work. That means more local involvement and a stronger defence industrial base inside the country.
Lockheed Martin has also said that having production in Australia will help the wider global GMLRS supply chain. More production capacity should help improve resilience, cut waiting times, and support allied military operations around the world.
