The Western Australian Government has signed a memorandum of understanding with General Dynamics Mission Systems to boost the state’s defence industry and ensure its economy remains strong.
General Dynamics Mission Systems is a business unit of US defence and aerospace company General Dynamics. The company integrates secure communication, information systems and technology.
The partnership, designed to fast-track local businesses into the Virginia-class supply chain, will enhance the local skills level and knowledge based of Western Australia’s workforce.
The Australian Government intends to invest more than $10 billion to create the Henderson Defence Precinct, as well as enhance facilities at HMAS Stirling, establish nuclear-powered submarine sustainment, and deliver continuous shipbuilding.
These projects are expected to support 10,000 jobs.
Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia says this agreement is a milestone for the state’s defence industry and it continues to play a role in the AUKUS partnership.
“Having our local businesses interact and learn alongside General Dynamics Mission Systems will give them an opportunity to be at the forefront of the Virginia-class supply chain,” Papalia says.
Defence is considered a key part of the state government’s ‘Made in WA’ plan to build more things locally, create jobs and diversify the economy. The sector is forecast to grow and become Western Australia’s second largest industry.
The mining industry is extremely important for the defence industry, as it requires several minerals to deliver its own objectives.
In 2024, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) announced 12 defence-critical raw materials that are essential for the allied defence industry. The materials are considered integral to the manufacture of advanced defence systems and equipment.
These minerals include aluminium, beryllium, cobalt, gallium, germanium, graphite, lithium, manganese, platinum, rare earths, titanium, and tungsten.
NATO says aluminium is critical for production lightweight yet robust military aircraft and missiles. Meanwhile, graphite is essential for producing main battle tanks and corvettes due to its high strength and thermal stability.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Western Australian Government
