WASHINGTON – The United States and Australia marked a new chapter in their enduring partnership by signing two landmark memoranda of understanding on collaborative defense manufacturing on March 11, 2025. The historic completion of these documents, signed by Patrick Mason, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology, and Rear Adm. Ian Murray, head of the Australian Defence Staff-Washington, paves the way for enhanced interoperability and strengthens the security of the Indo-Pacific region.
“This is not just about putting pen to paper – we are launching a new era of collaborative defense manufacturing,” said Mason. “This effort builds upon our nations’ shared values, deep history of cooperation and unwavering commitment to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific region.”
The first MOU solidifies a commitment to co-producing M795 155 mm ammunition by directly bolstering Australia’s sovereign defense capabilities and ensuring a reliable supply of critical ordnance. This initiative represents a significant investment in Australia's ability to meet evolving security challenges and contributing to the global munitions supply chain.
The second MOU breaks new ground with a co-assembly initiative for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), laying the foundation for an Australian missile industry capable of producing advanced long-range strike capabilities. This partnership will enhance Australia’s defense posture and will increase interoperability with U.S. forces, allowing for greater coordination and effectiveness.
These MOUs are a testament to the trust and shared values that underpin the U.S.-Australia alliance. We are not just allies, but partners who innovate and build together, bound by a strong and abiding “mateship” between our militaries.
These MOUs represent a significant step toward developing advanced capabilities that deter aggression and safeguard the shared interests of both nations by fostering close collaboration between industries, engineers and military personnel, reinforcing the storied partnership between the United States and Australia for years to come.
In 2024, the United States and Australia committed, through the Australia-United States Ministerial Consultation Joint Statement, to pursue a multi-service roadmap for expanded production and sustainment activities under Australia’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance enterprise, and these MOUs are the first munitions manufacturing arrangements to conclude in fulfillment of the GWEO roadmap.
In February 2025, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth met with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles and reiterated the department’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Australia through the GWEO enterprise.
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