Australia Tests Co-Developed US Precision Strike Missile

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Australia conducted its first test firing of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), a next-generation weapon co-developed with the United States, on 25 July 2025, marking a significant advancement in the country’s long-range strike capabilities. This article examines the test’s implications, the Australian Labor Party’s (ALP) involvement, and concerns regarding the balance between foreign partnerships and domestic defense priorities.

The PrSM was launched from a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) at the Mount Bundey Training Area in the Northern Territory. The missile demonstrated a range exceeding 500 kilometers, according to a Defence Minister’s statement in July 2025. Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy, alongside US Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll, observed the test. This milestone aligns with the 2024 National Defence Strategy’s emphasis on littoral manoeuvre and extended strike reach, as noted by Defence Connect. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the PrSM doubles the capacity of HIMARS launchers by accommodating two missiles per pod. Future upgrades aim to extend its range to 1,000 kilometers and include anti-ship capabilities, according to Asian Military Review. Conroy stated, “This launch marks a twenty-five-fold increase in the Army’s strike capability,” underscoring the speed of acquisition.

The test followed a June 2025 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for PrSM production, with Australia committing $310 million over ten years, as reported by Breaking Defense. The agreement offers opportunities for local industry involvement, although negotiations for domestic manufacturing are ongoing. Critics, including Shadow Defence Minister Andrew Hastie, caution that the ALP’s focus on US-led defence programs may increase reliance on foreign technology. Hastie told Sky News on 24 July 2025, “The ALP must prioritise sovereign capabilities over high-profile joint initiatives.” Concerns have also been expressed regarding Australia’s initial $150 million PrSM purchase and its impact on funding for local defence innovation.

The successful test enhances interoperability between Australia and the US, a critical factor in the Indo-Pacific security environment amid rising regional tensions. With HIMARS deliveries having commenced in March 2025, according to Army Recognition, the PrSM bolsters deterrence. Nonetheless, questions remain about how the ALP government will balance international cooperation with efforts to strengthen Australia’s independent defence capabilities to effectively safeguard national interests.