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2d ago

Australia Signs A$1.7 Billion Deal to Build 'Ghost Shark' Undersea Drone Fleet

The program delivers long‑range ISR plus strike capability, with initial vehicles entering service in January 2026.

In this photo provided by Australia's Department of Defense on September 10, 2025, a Ghost Shark extra-large autonomous undersea vehicle is seen here in Sydney, Australia.
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Richard Marles, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, and Pat Conroy, Australian Minister for Defence Industry, arrive at the Royal Australian Navy base HMAS Kuttabul, in Sydney, Australia, September 10, 2025. REUTERS/Hollie Adams

Overview

  • Defence signed a five‑year contract with Anduril Australia covering delivery, sustainment and continued development, with manufacturing based in Australia.
  • Officials said production starts now at low rate, scaling to high‑rate output in 2026.
  • The government plans to field dozens over five years, with exact numbers withheld for operational security.
  • The extra‑large autonomous vehicles are designed for stealthy, long‑range intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and strike missions alongside crewed fleets.
  • The deal supports about 120 existing jobs and creates 150+ new roles at Anduril Australia, with 40+ local suppliers engaged and export opportunities flagged.