The Western Australian Government has announced the first five companies selected to participate in its proposed Western Defence Forge, a new defence manufacturing initiative intended to expand the State's involvement in Australia's defence industry.

The successful companies are Babcock Australasia, Thales Australia, NIOA, Honeywell and a joint venture between OQ Technology and AROSE.

Their activities include autonomous systems, guided weapons and munitions, communications equipment and satellite technology.

The companies were selected from 179 submissions, including 118 from Western Australia, and are expected to sign memorandums of understanding with the State Government to establish arrangements for future cooperation.

Premier Roger Cook said the initiative was intended to diversify Western Australia's economy by increasing local manufacturing and creating opportunities within the defence industry.

The Government is also in advanced discussions with two additional companies that could potentially join the project.

Although Collie was initially identified as a leading location when the proposal was announced in May 2026, the Government has confirmed that no location has been finalised.

Cook said Collie remained a suitable option because of its available industrial land and existing workforce skills, but stressed that the project was not restricted to the town.

The proposal could provide new employment and industrial opportunities for Collie as the region continues its transition away from coal-fired electricity generation.

The State Government is seeking Federal Government support to help establish the manufacturing hub.

Federal Defence Minister Richard Marles welcomed the initiative and indicated that the Commonwealth would work with Western Australia on the proposal, although no specific funding commitment was announced.

The Western Defence Forge remains in the planning and industry engagement stage, with its eventual location, development costs and construction timetable yet to be confirmed.