Full Breakdown
Australia Unveils Armed Ghost Shark Underwater Drones
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: New Payloads for Ghost Shark AUVs
On October 19, the Australian Department of Defence announced that the Ghost Shark extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) will be equipped with three new payload options: up to 12 deployable sea mines, swarms of Anduril Altius loitering-munition aerial drones, and logistics caches for special-forces equipment. The modular design allows each Ghost Shark to be reconfigured for mine-laying, strike missions, or supply delivery, and the capabilities will be demonstrated during Exercise Maritime Big Play Pacific in San Diego later this month.
Background & Context
The Ghost Shark program stems from a $1.7 billion contract signed in September 2025 with U.S. defence-technology firm Anduril Industries to produce “dozens” of the unmanned submarines for the Royal Australian Navy. The effort is part of Australia’s broader $5.8 billion investment in autonomous undersea warfare outlined in the 2026 National Defence Strategy and aligns with AUKUS Pillar II, which seeks interoperable payloads for partner nations’ uncrewed systems.
Data & Statistics
- Contract value: A$1.7 billion (? US$1.3 billion).
- Total investment in autonomous undersea capabilities through 2036: up to A$5.8 billion.
- Payload capacity: 12 sea mines per vehicle; each Altius drone can carry four kg of explosives.
Official Statements & Responses
Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy described the new capabilities as a “different threat to potential adversaries,” emphasizing that the drones can “deny areas through mining” and strike targets far from Australian shores. He noted that the payloads are being offered to the United States and United Kingdom under AUKUS Pillar II sharing arrangements.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius indicated in March that Germany was “formally investigating” the Ghost Bat aerial drone as part of its procurement review. By contrast, Politico reported that Germany had abandoned plans to acquire the Ghost Bat directly, opting for an open competition among European alternatives. The discrepancy illustrates uncertainty about export prospects for the Australian-made systems.
Why It Matters
The armed Ghost Shark fleet expands Australia’s undersea warfare toolkit, enabling covert mine-laying, long-range strike via aerial drone swarms, and logistical support for special-operations forces without endangering sailors. Officials argue the system complements the nation’s forthcoming nuclear-powered submarines by providing a low-cost, high-flexibility option for sea denial and protection of maritime infrastructure. Export interest from Germany and other AUKUS partners could further bolster Australia’s sovereign defence industry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Teeth with the ability to deny areas through them through mining. Teeth with the ability to strike targets thousands of nautical miles away from Australia.” — Pat Conroy
- “The Ghost Shark now has teeth, and we’ll have the ability to inflict damage on any potential adversary,” — Pat Conroy
What’s Next
The newly configured Ghost Sharks and associated BlueBottle surface vessels are scheduled to participate in Exercise Maritime Big Play Pacific in San Diego later this month, providing an opportunity for the United States and United Kingdom to evaluate the payloads under operational conditions.