Gilmour Space Technologies today announced a $52 million grant deal with Australia’s federal government to advance the research and commercialisation of new space technologies as part of its Australian Space Manufacturing Network (ASMN) initiative.
Gilmour said the investment will go towards its previously announced $156 million ASMN project, which is part of the government’s Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) Collaboration stream.
The Queensland Government, Gilmour Space, and a lengthy list of partners will all contribute to the ASMN, the space manufacturer revealed in a press release.
The ASMN will spearhead the building of three new space facilities in Queensland, including a common test and manufacturing facility that will allow ASMN members to progress their research and technology development at a cheaper cost.
Other facilities include an advanced manufacturing hub for building commercial rockets and satellites, anchored by Gilmour Space as well as an orbital spaceport in North Queensland.
Gilmour Space CEO Adam Gilmour congratulated all ASMN partners and thanked the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, the Queensland Government, and the City of Gold Coast for their contributions to this vital project.
“Most of us in the Australian Space Manufacturing Network are already developing innovative new space technologies,” he said.
Gilmour added, “The ASMN hub will allow members to advance their products and services to higher Technology Readiness Levels, facilitate more commercial-focused collaborations, provide valuable supply chain opportunities, and a path to launching their products to space.”
The initiative will also aid in the development of our sovereign capability in the manufacture of launch vehicles, satellites, and other commercial space technology for Australian and worldwide customers, Gilmour noted.
Meaghan Scanlon, Acting Minister for State Development and Gold Coast, said the Palaszczuk Government was delighted to assist the aerospace industry in its efforts to continue providing jobs and economic value to Queenslanders.
More than 30 space companies collaborating to boost the industry, with government backing, is a clear example of what can be achieved when government and the private sector works together,” Scanlon remarked.
To date, this is the largest space collaboration project in the MMI, involving more than 30 space companies, universities, and supply chain partners.
These include Australian partners Neumann Space, Swinburne University of Technology, Spiral Blue, Greatcell Energy, and ARM Hub as well as international satellite companies mu Space and SatRevolution.
Gilmour Space is looking for a location for the ASMN centre on the Gold Coast in south-east Queensland, with plans to start operations in 2024.
