First Australian-made GMLRS test-fired

The first Australian-assembled Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles have been successfully test-fired at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. The successful firing expands the long-range strike capability of the Australian Army and demonstrates Defence’s commitment to building the nation’s sovereign defence industry, the department says. This test-firing follows the December 2025 opening of a new dedicated assembly and manufacturing facility at Port Wakefield, South Australia. 

The GMLRS surface-to-surface missile is capable of precisely striking targets at ranges of at least 70km. It is launched from the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS); Army has acquired 42 HiMARS to equip the newly raised 14 Brigade under its long-range fires program.

“Making missiles in Australia is central to Australia’s national defence resilience,” said Pat Conroy, Minister for Defence Industry. “Australia is now the only country outside the United States to make the GMLRS missile, providing opportunities for Australian industry to enter into global supply chains.

“This successful test-firing is a major milestone for Australia’s sovereign guided weapons capability, demonstrating concrete progress in strengthening our national self‑reliance and delivering a defence future made in Australia.”

Importantly, adds Defence, Australian-made GMLRS missiles will provide a pathway for future long‑range fires munitions, such as the 500km range Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) and even long range hypersonic weapons, to be locally manufactured.

Australian suppliers will be progressively introduced into the GMLRS supply chain thanks to the Albanese Government’s $320 million commitment to uplift local companies to manufacture GMLRS components.

This is the third live-fire conducted by Australian HiMARS launch vehicles since their delivery in March 2025, demonstrating the accelerated delivery and training systems in place to achieve initial operational capability.