The Australian and United Kingdom governments moved to deepen defence collaboration this week. Critical minerals supply chains emerged as a key pillar of growing bilateral ties. UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard hosted Australian Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy. They met for the revived Australia–UK Defence Industry Dialogue in London.
The ministers discussed cooperation on minerals essential to advanced defence technologies. These talks focused on improved information-sharing to strengthen supply chain resilience. The leaders agreed to deepen joint research efforts for these materials. They also pledged to ensure access to strategically important materials for both nations.
The Australian and the United Kingdom governments deepen defence collaboration this week
Critical Minerals Secure Military Advantage
Critical minerals remain vital for the production of modern military hardware. These resources support the manufacturing of fighter jets and radar systems. Australia possesses some of the largest mineral reserves in the world. The UK seeks to reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers through this partnership.
The UK Vision 2035 strategy sets specific targets for mineral security. London aims to source no more than 60 per cent from one nation. The plan targets 10 per cent domestic production by 2035. Recycling will provide 20 per cent of the UK’s mineral needs.
How critical minerals secure military advantage
Strategic Reserves and Investment Targets
Australia manages a $1.2 billion Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve. This reserve focuses on several key elements for defence applications:
- Antimony: Used in night vision equipment and batteries.
- Gallium: Essential for advanced semiconductors in radar systems.
- Rare Earth Elements: Vital for high-performance permanent magnets.
The strategic reserve secures rights to minerals produced in Australia. The government on-sells these rights to meet international demand. This mechanism strengthens supply chains for export partners like the UK. Australia also offers a $4 billion Critical Minerals Facility for project financing.
Steel and Submarine Manufacturing Progress
The ministers highlighted the role of their respective steel industries. Steel remains essential for the delivery of SSN-AUKUS class submarines. The leaders agreed to explore options for a collective steel base. This collaboration will support the construction of nuclear-powered vessels.
The Royal Navy currently trains around 1,000 Australian personnel for the program. Australian industrial personnel now work at the BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow. These placements grow the skills required for submarine construction in South Australia. The ministers noted progress in manufacturing reactors for the AUKUS fleet.
Steel and Submarine Manufacturing Progress
Collaboration on Future Defence Technology
The dialogue addressed cooperation on directed-energy weapons and planning systems. Ministers discussed software-enabled systems for improved joint operational planning. The nations will also work together on radar technology research. Australia invited the UK to observe MQ28A testing at Woomera in 2026.
This cooperation builds on recent missile test firings in the region. Both countries aim to achieve frictionless defence trade between their borders. They will address barriers such as security clearances and mobility. The departments will also harmonise cybersecurity standards for shared projects.
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Enhancing Industrial Resilience
The ministers reaffirmed the importance of integrated defence industrial bases. They agreed to build resilient energy supply chains for both nations. Australia will supply munitions and energetics to the United Kingdom. This agreement demonstrates the enduring contribution of both nations to global security.
- $1.2 billion invested in the Strategic Reserve.
- $4 billion available through the Critical Minerals Facility.
- $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund supports industry growth.
- 78 projects listed in the Australian Critical Minerals Prospectus.
Luke Pollard and Pat Conroy committed to further practical action. They directed their departments to prioritise measures that enable industry collaboration. The AUKDID will remain a forum for driving progress on shared objectives. Both nations aim to safeguard their security through these industrial partnerships.
