- Minister Paul Papalia to lead defence industry delegation to Washington DC
- The mission will build links with US defence companies to support WA jobs
- Local defence businesses could help fast track Virginia-class submarine construction
Minister Paul Papalia has travelled to the United States to sell Western Australia's world-class defence industry as part of the State Government's Made in WA plan.
Leading a defence industry delegation made up of WA businesses, Minister Papalia will meet with key US defence industry players in Alabama, Connecticut and Washington DC.
Travelling Western Australian businesses will attend the Sea Air Space Exposition in Maryland, which brings together industry leaders and top military decision-makers from around the world to share the latest in technology and innovation.
The expo provides the opportunity to showcase WA's defence strengths on the global stage and for small-to-medium-enterprises (SMEs) to meet face-to-face with industry heavyweights.
Defence is set to become WA's second largest industry after mining, with tens of billions of dollars being invested by the Federal Government to create the Henderson Defence Precinct, enhance facilities at HMAS Stirling, establish nuclear-powered submarine sustainment, and deliver continuous shipbuilding.
Not only will the State become home to the biggest naval maintenance hub in the southern hemisphere as part of AUKUS, but local defence businesses could also play a role in fast tracking the construction of nuclear-powered submarines in the US.
WA businesses already manufacture vital parts of Australian submarines on home soil, and it's hoped by building links with the US industry, they will become part of the Virginia-class supply chain.
The Made in WA plan aims to take the State forward by restoring WA's manufacturing capability. WA's defence industry is a key part of this plan and will help diversify the State's economy and create generations of jobs as the population grows.
Comments attributed to Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia:
"WA's defence industry has the potential to strengthen Australia's relationship with the US through its world-class workforces.
"Our local businesses can help fast track the construction of Virgina-class submarines - that's good for us and our AUKUS partners.
"The purpose of this mission is to showcase our defence strengths on the global stage and build relationships to help our businesses enter the Virginia-class supply chain in the US."
Business: |
Bio: |
Hofmann Engineering |
Hofmann Engineering's key capabilities are wide-ranging and include gear manufacture, precision and heavy machining, fabrication, design, and site services to support defence and aerospace projects with complete end-to-end solutions. |
Greenroom Robotics |
Greenroom Robotics is a leader in maritime autonomy and robotics, specialising in advanced software and artificial intelligence solutions for uncrewed systems. The company plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities of autonomous maritime operations, with applications spanning defence, commercial shipping, offshore energy, and environmental monitoring. |
Matrix Composites and Engineering |
Matrix specialises in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of engineered polymer products for defence industries. |
VEEM |
VEEM specialises in the design and manufacture of marine propulsion and ride control systems, as well as precision cast and machined components for defence and commercial maritime applications. |
Curtin University |
Curtin University is renowned for its innovative research and global partnerships. Its Security and Resilience Group focuses on enhancing safety, security, and resilience through cutting-edge research and practical solutions. |
