Anduril Opens New Ghost Shark Factory in Sydney
Anduril Industries, a US-based defense technology company, has launched a new manufacturing facility in Sydney, Australia. The 7,400 sqm site is dedicated to producing the Ghost Shark, an extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle (XL-AUV).
Significant Economic Impact and Job Creation
The factory will create over 150 high-skilled jobs, boosting the local economy. It supports a supply chain of more than 40 Australian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) providing components and materials for production.
Royal Australian Navy Contract and Production Details
This development follows the Royal Australian Navy’s $1.12 billion (A$1.7 billion) contract for a large fleet of Ghost Sharks, scheduled for delivery over the next five years. Production has started with low-rate initial manufacturing and will scale to full production in 2026.
Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities
- Integration of robotic manufacturing
- AI-driven logistics
- Custom test tank for in-water testing of buoyancy, electrical systems, and safety before sea trials
Future Developments and Export Plans
The site will also develop Dive-XL, a commercial baseline version of the vehicle intended for export to allied and partner nations, pending Australian government approval.
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Author's Summary
Anduril’s new Sydney factory marks a milestone in advanced underwater vehicle production, fostering Australian jobs and supporting key naval contracts with cutting-edge technology.