Lockheed Martin Australia (LMA) has announced plans to invest $74 million into the establishment of a national integrated air and missile defence (IAMD) ecosystem.

The fully inclusive facility, designed to support Australia’s sovereign capability and future defence projects, aims to foster technological collaboration and has been earmarked for development within the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct (SAP).

Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock welcomed the news, saying the proposed facility is a considerable win for the Williamtown SAP, and for the region.

“We’re incredibly excited by Lockheed Martin Australia’s announcement, and we’re wholly supportive of their proposal,” Peter said.

“Newcastle Airport is committed to being the airport the region deserves. The establishment of the newest Lockheed Martin Australia facility will not only play an important role in our region’s growth, but also enable the airport to continue to deliver on its promise to the community with the continued growth of Astra Aerolab, our 116Ha aerospace and defence focussed development.

“The news is testament to the long standing and collaborative efforts of Newcastle Airport and the Greater Hunter business community in supporting defence industry prime contractors in their submissions and proposals to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

“Williamtown and the Greater Hunter Region is proudly home to a vibrant defence industry ecosystem, and Astra Aerolab – located in the heart of the SAP – is being purpose-built to meet the specialised requirements of the defence industry and their people.

“We look forward to engaging with Lockheed Martin Australia to help bring this project to fruition, and working together with them to help grow capabilities that will benefit our region for years to come.”

IMAGE | Astra Aerolab Pocket Park, Stage 1.