Arabic version: نطاق ثارغوميندا جاهز لاختبار الأسلحة الموجّهة

According to ABC News, the Queensland government is partially funding a private weapons and aerospace testing facility near Thargomindah in the state’s south-west. The 1.2 million-hectare MaxQ range will be developed on leased grazing land and is intended to test horizontal-launch equipment and guided weapons.

Phase one is scheduled to begin operating in mid-2028 and will be available to domestic and allied users. The project includes launch infrastructure, explosives storage and a 2.5-kilometre runway. It is expected to create 60 construction and operational jobs.

The range is operated by Queensland-based Black Sky Aerospace and was previously known as the Outback Space Port, where it has been used for sub-orbital rocket launches. Black Sky Aerospace, founded in 2018, develops propulsion technology including rocket motors and fuels. The company is headquartered in Logan and also operates a launch and production facility near Goondiwindi.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the government would fund half of the $15 million project through its $180 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund. The fund, launched last year, invests in defence, biomedical and biofuel capabilities. Mr Bleijie said manufacturers had previously needed to seek testing locations interstate or overseas.

Bulloo Shire Mayor John ‘Tractor’ Ferguson welcomed the expected employment and said residents were broadly positive about new industries. He compared the potential local impact with the Jackson oil fields boom in the 1980s, saying additional activity could bring more people, families and children to the town.