Anduril Opens New Ghost Shark Factory in Sydney, Australia
Anduril Industries, a US-based defense technology company, has launched a new manufacturing facility in Sydney. The 7,400 sqm factory is designed specifically to produce the Ghost Shark, an extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle (XL-AUV).
Significant Contract and Economic Impact
The opening follows the Royal Australian Navy awarding Anduril a $1.12 billion (A$1.7 billion) contract for a large fleet of Ghost Sharks to be delivered over five years. The facility will create more than 150 high-skilled jobs in the local economy.
Advanced Manufacturing and Production Details
- The factory combines advanced robotic manufacturing with AI-driven logistics.
- It features a custom test tank for in-water verification of buoyancy, electrical systems, and safety before sea trials.
- Production started with a low-rate initial phase and will reach full scale in 2026.
- The supply chain includes over 40 Australian SMEs providing various components and materials.
Future Developments and Export Potential
The site will also develop Dive-XL, a commercial baseline variant of the Ghost Shark intended for export to allied and partner countries, pending Australian government approval.
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Author's summary: Anduril’s new Sydney factory marks a major development in autonomous underwater vehicle production, boosting local jobs and supporting Australia's naval defense and export capabilities.