Albanese Government strengthens Army's long-range strike capability

In a major enhancement to the Australian Army’s long-range strike capability, the Albanese Government has selected the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), investing $2.3 billion over the decade and delivering a second long‑range fires regiment at the Edinburgh Defence Precinct in South Australia.

This decision follows a comprehensive competitive evaluation process by Defence.

As the 2026 National Defence Strategy sets out, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) requires greater capacity for long-range strike to defend Australia.

A second long‑range fires regiment will significantly enhance the ADF’s ability to engage targets at ranges of up to 500kms, transforming to more than 1,000kms with future increments of PrSM. This will increase our capacity to respond effectively to contingencies in our region and work with our allies and partners.

As set out in the recently released 2026 Integrated Investment Program, the Albanese Government is investing up to $37 billion over the next decade, including enabling data and systems, to develop and enhance the Royal Australian Navy, Army and the Royal Australian Air Force’s targeting and long-range strike capabilities.

HIMARS are already in service with the Australian Army as part of the first long-range fires regiment. These launchers were used at Exercise Talisman Sabre 25, firing a PrSM two years earlier than planned. The second regiment will complement Army’s existing HIMARS capability – delivering a proven, highly mobile and lethal strike system aligned with Australia’s strategic and operational requirements.

The Albanese Government is establishing a sovereign missile manufacturing industry in Australia, including missiles fired from the HIMARS launcher.

The first Australian-made Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missile was test-fired by an Australian HIMARS this month, and last year Australia and the United States established a cooperative program for PrSM to pave the way for future domestic production.

Both missiles will have Australian industry participation in their supply chains, including for locally manufactured components and sub-components.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“This is a decisive investment in Australia’s long‑range strike capability that will bolster our Defence Force and help keep Australians safe.”

“This capability delivers on the National Defence Strategy direction to accelerate and expand the acquisition of land-based long-range fires to provide the ADF with a deployable strike capability to protect Australia’s northern approaches and contribute to sea control and sea denial.” 

“This is another significant milestone as the Albanese Government continues to invest in an integrated, focused force that meets our strategic circumstances.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“To defend Australia, our Army needs a stronger long-range strike capability – and we’re delivering it.”

“The Albanese Government is investing up to $37 billion over the next decade on targeting and long-range strike capabilities for the ADF.”

“We’re already making missiles that can be fired from the HIMARS – and this decision will create even more demand for PrSM missiles within the Australian Army and deliver more opportunities for PrSM manufacture in Australia.” 

Media note:

Media can access imagery/vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/S20261141