New sonar facility opened in Sydney

The Australian Minister for Industry and Defence, Pat Conroy, opened a new facility in Rydalmere, western Sydney, dedicated to the manufacturing and maintenance of towed sonars. The site is part of Thales Australia’s advanced manufacturing complex and will focus on underwater acoustic systems.

Facility funding and purpose

The facility is jointly funded by Thales Australia and the Australian Commonwealth, with the exact amount not disclosed but described as several million Australian dollars. It is located within Thales Australia’s Acoustics Centre of Excellence and is part of the national supply chain for sonar systems that will be used on Hunter-class frigates.

Sonar technology and capabilities

The new building is 100 meters long and will handle the entire manufacturing process for linear towed antennas used on submarines, surface ships, and autonomous maritime systems. These antennas detect and track low-acoustic signature objects such as submarines or torpedoes, enhancing underwater surveillance and defense capabilities.

Long history of sonar production

The Rydalmere site has supplied sonar technologies to the Royal Australian Navy for over 30 years. These systems have been used on Collins-class submarines and for anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and understanding the underwater environment.

New products and export focus

The facility will produce next-generation towed antennas for submarines and surface ships, as well as thin-line linear antennas for maritime drones. These products are intended for both the Australian market and international export, supporting Australia’s defense and technology industries.

Operational maintenance and national security

The new installation will allow for the operational maintenance of acoustic systems within Australia, reducing the need to send equipment overseas. This will keep platforms available longer for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, enhancing national security and operational readiness.

Support for multiple defense programs

The facility will support three major defense programs: Hunter-class frigates, Collins-class submarines, and the BlueSentry® autonomous system. The project is expected to create several dozen direct jobs in western Sydney, with additional employment opportunities for suppliers and partners.

Investment in national expertise

Conroy described the new installation as a shared investment that strengthens national security, creates qualified jobs, and positions Australia as a national center of expertise in acoustic systems. The site reflects a long-term commitment to local manufacturing and technological advancement.

Thales Australia's role and global presence

Jeff Connolly, CEO of Thales Australia and New Zealand, highlighted the company’s ability to develop advanced submarine warfare technologies in Australia, citing the Collins-class submarines and the upcoming Hunter-class frigates. Thales Australia employs around 4,500 people nationwide and supports over 2,000 jobs through its suppliers.

Global operations and R&D investment

Thales Group, the parent company, operates in 65 countries with over 85,000 employees and reported revenue of 22.1 billion euros in 2025. The company invests 4.5 billion euros annually in research and development, reinforcing its role in global defense and technology innovation.