Overview

• On May 27, Scott Morrison called for AUKUS to establish a third pillar focused on space technology and defence systems.
• The US ‘Golden Dome’ missile shield is proceeding with ground interceptors and satellites at an estimated cost of US$175 billion to US$831 billion over 20 years.
• Morrison highlighted China’s deployment of manoeuvrable satellites and Russia’s reported work on a space-based nuclear anti-satellite weapon as growing threats.
• Australia’s Space Agency and its AU$2 billion in past funding for satellites and launch infrastructure could underpin its role in the new space pillar.
• Analysts forecast the global space economy will jump from US$630 billion to US$1.8 trillion by 2035, offering strategic and commercial benefits for Australia.