‘Ghost sharks’ key to defence
Autonomous, stealthy undersea robots known as “Ghost Sharks”, capable of gathering intelligence, will be a centrepiece in Australia’s bid to bolster its ocean patrols.
The Albanese government has doubled down in its commitment to delivering the Ghost Shark program, confirming it would become “mission zero” for the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator, rendering it one of the highest priorities.
It came a day after Defence Minister Richard Marles announced the defence budget would be bolstered by $50bn over the next decade, with an increased focus on naval capabilities in a bid to combat a more aggressive China.
Ghost Shark, which the government says will provide navy with a “stealthy, long-range autonomous undersea warfare capability”, would be able to conduct “persistent intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and strike”.
Ten companies have already partnered with Defence’s major partner Anduril Australia to be ready to manufacture the vessel.
Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said Ghost Shark was an “exemplar” of how Defence and Australian industry could “move at speed to develop new sovereign capabilities” to respond to the strategic circumstances.
“By transitioning Ghost Shark to (the capabilities accelerator), a clear statement is being made,” Mr Conroy said.
Head of ASCA, Emily Hilder, said the Ghost Shark mission was a “fast and innovative” way for Defence to pursue new technology.
Meanwhile navy chief, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, said Ghost Shark was crucial.
“The Albanese government will deliver a sovereign, autonomous undersea capability, through the Ghost Shark Program,” he said.