American defense company Anduril Industries has launched a state-of-the-art production facility for its “Ghost Shark” unmanned submarine in Sydney, marking a significant step in collaboration with the Royal Australian Navy. This unmanned submersible is an adaptation of Anduril’s Dive-XL platform, recognized for its all-electric design and extra-large configuration that fits into a standard 40-foot shipping container.
The Ghost Shark is engineered to accommodate various payloads through its modular design, although specific details concerning the Australian variant remain classified. The unmanned submarine is intended to offer a cost-effective, stealthy, and long-range underwater capability, specializing in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and even strike missions.
In September, the Royal Australian Navy awarded Anduril a substantial US$1.1 billion contract to initiate mass production of the Ghost Shark. Prior to the facility’s launch, the company had already produced three prototypes for testing, with the first model of the production line getting unveiled during the inauguration ceremony. This event was attended by key figures, including Australia’s defense minister and the Chief of the Royal Australian Navy.
The newly established 80,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to the mass manufacturing of the Ghost Shark, although details regarding production rates, unit costs, and other contract specifics were not disclosed.
Australian defense minister Pat Conroy highlighted the strategic advantages that the Ghost Shark brings to Australia, emphasizing its modular architecture and advanced production capabilities. He stated, “Ghost Shark is a sovereign, extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle that will give Australia a real edge in the underwater battlespace… produced in large numbers to deliver affordable, autonomous mass. That’s a game-changer for maritime deterrence.”
Anduril Industries is expanding its foothold in defense technologies, producing a range of unmanned systems from anti-drone technology to advanced missile systems, including rocket motors for various applications. The development of the Ghost Shark not only represents an innovative leap in military capabilities for Australia but also reinforces the nation’s commitment to enhancing its maritime security.