The Australian government has announced a significant investment in advanced underwater attack drones, known as Ghost Shark, to enhance the country’s naval capabilities.

Australian Minister for Defence Richard Marles revealed that the government has signed a $1.1 billion, five-year contract with Anduril Australia to build, maintain, and develop the uncrewed undersea vehicles in Australia.

This strategic move aims to supplement Australia’s plans to acquire sophisticated nuclear-powered submarines and bolster its long-range strike capabilities in response to China’s expanding military presence in the Asia Pacific region.

The Ghost Shark autonomous underwater vehicles will complement Australia’s naval surface fleet and submarines, providing a more capable and lethal navy.

“This is a profoundly important capability for the Royal Australian Navy,” Marles said. “We have consistently articulated that Australia faces the most complex, in some ways, the most threatening, strategic landscape that we have had since the end of the Second World War.”

The drones will have a very long range and stealth capabilities, making them a valuable asset for the Australian Defence Force.

The government has emphasized the importance of incorporating autonomous technology into the country’s defence forces. Australia’s vast coastline and northern ocean require robust defence capabilities, which the Ghost Shark drones will help provide.

Dozens of Ghost Sharks will be built in Australia, with opportunities to export to the country’s allies. Australian Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said the first Ghost Sharks will be in service at the beginning of 2026.

The investment in Ghost Shark drones is part of Australia’s broader defence strategy, which includes the AUKUS programme. This programme aims to build stealth, nuclear-powered submarines with the United Kingdom and the United States over three decades.

However, critics of the AUKUS deal in the US have questioned why Washington would sell nuclear-powered submarines to Australia without stocking its own military first. As a result, US President Donald Trump’s administration has put AUKUS under review to ensure it aligns with his “America First” agenda.

Despite the review, Marles expressed confidence in the AUKUS partnership, highlighting its importance for Australia’s national interests. “All three governments are committed to AUKUS,” he said. “There is a treaty underpinning it, and we are very confident about its future.”

The Australian government is also strengthening its defence partnerships with other countries, including Papua New Guinea. Marles mentioned that the country’s relationship with Papua New Guinea has never been closer, with increased exercises, operations, and joint recruitment.

The government has also invested in northern bases, including Scherger and HMAS Cairns, to enhance Australia’s defence capabilities.

Marles said these bases are crucial for projecting power into the Pacific and will play a significant role in the country’s defence strategy.

“We are investing significantly in Scherger, and that goes into things like increased fuel storage, better ordnance handling mechanisms,” he said.

The Australian government’s investment in Ghost Shark attack drones demonstrates its commitment to enhancing the country’s defence capabilities.

With a focus on autonomous technology and long-range strike capabilities, the Ghost Shark drones will play a significant role in Australia’s naval strategy.

As the country navigates the complex and threatening strategic landscape, the government’s investment in defence capabilities will help ensure Australia’s security and prosperity.