US defense technology company Anduril Industries has launched a new manufacturing facility in Sydney, Australia, dedicated to producing the Ghost Shark, a large autonomous underwater vehicle (XL-AUV).
The 7,400sqm factory is purpose-built for Ghost Shark production and will generate over 150 highly skilled jobs, boosting the local economy.
The factory opening follows the Royal Australian Navy’s $1.12 billion (A$1.7 billion) contract for a substantial fleet of Ghost Sharks, scheduled for delivery over the next five years.
The facility integrates advanced robotic manufacturing, AI-powered logistics, and a specialized test tank for underwater testing of buoyancy, electrical systems, and safety prior to sea trials. Production began with low-rate initial runs and will scale up to full production in 2026.
More than 40 Australian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) contribute to the supply chain, providing diverse components and materials for the project.
The site will also develop Dive-XL, a commercial baseline variant intended for export to allied nations, pending Australian government approval.
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Author’s summary: Anduril’s new Sydney factory marks a major step in domestic defense manufacturing, combining cutting-edge technology with local partnerships to meet growing naval demand.