Australian companies Axiom Precision Manufacturing (Axiom) and the Nupress Group (Nupress) have been selected as global supply chain partners by Lockheed Martin for the Orion spacecraft program, a cornerstone of NASA's Artemis missions to the Moon.
Having previously established themselves as industry partners on the F-35 program, Axiom and Nupress were identified as potential partners for the Orion program during a roadshow led by Lockheed Martin's Office of Australian Industrial Participation team.
“Axiom and Nupress exemplify the vast industrial capability available in Australia. Their commitment to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with Lockheed Martin's dedication to delivering excellence," said Warren McDonald, Chief Executive Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand.
"This is an example of how the Global Supply Chain program has allowed us to partner with and provide opportunities for Australian industry to shape the future of defence and space exploration.”
The Orion Production and Operations Contract (OPOC), an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract, encompasses up to twelve vehicles, divided into three or four different orders.
Up to six additional Orion spacecraft may be ordered under the IDIQ contract, leveraging production cost data from the previous six missions to enable optimised unit prices.
“Nupress is honoured to strengthen our partnership with Lockheed Martin through the Orion spacecraft program. This opportunity reinforces our commitment to world-class manufacturing that delivers successful outcomes," said Craig McWilliam, Chief Executive Officer of Nupress.
"We are excited to continue our journey in the space sector and work with Lockheed Martin to support NASA’s missions to the Moon”.