Babcock Australasia (Babcock) has been identified by the Western Australian Government as a preferred anchor tenant for the state’s new defence manufacturing hub, known as the Western Defence Forge.
The announcement launches Babcock’s proposal to build uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) into the next phase of development. Babcock Acting CEO, Leah Grantham, will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Cook Government at Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition in Perth today.
As one of just five companies identified from 179 submissions, Babcock’s project aligns with both Western Australian and Commonwealth Government priorities to strengthen sovereign capability, grow the advanced manufacturing sector and create lasting economic and workforce opportunities.
Babcock has been a major employer in WA for more than three decades, delivering complex programs across maritime, aviation and strategic communications.
The company supports critical Defence capabilities through programs including the Regional Maintenance Provider-West (RMP-W) and Frigate Capability Life Cycle Management (CLCM) contracts, sustainment and engineering services for the Collins Class submarine and the ongoing delivery of high-frequency communication capabilities in Exmouth.
Babcock Australasia Acting Chief Executive Officer Leah Grantham said:
“The importance of uncrewed and autonomous systems is increasing across the globe, both in defence and civil sectors.
“By establishing UAS manufacturing in WA, Babcock can create more well-paid jobs, grow Australia’s sovereign industrial base and ensure essential assets are developed, manufactured and sustained right here in Western Australia.
“Babcock is proud to have supported critical Defence projects across the state for more than 30 years. We look forward to working with industry and the community to help realise a world-class defence manufacturing hub that delivers lasting economic and strategic benefits.”