The United States and Australia have signed a Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) aimed at expanding their partnership in the commercial space industry. The agreement was signed by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in a ceremony held in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 26, 2023.
A TSA is an accord between the United States and a Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) partner country. It establishes the legal and technical safeguards necessary for launching U.S.-licensed space launch vehicles (SLVs) and satellites from the partner country, while also ensuring the secure handling of sensitive U.S. technology.
As stated in the press release by Secretary Blinken, "Once it enters into force, American companies will be able to complete space launches from Australia while keeping their technology secure and adhering to our international nonproliferation commitments."
The financial prospects associated with the TSA will depend on Australia's plans for infrastructure development and agreements with private launch firms. The agreement has the potential to catalyze new opportunities for the Australian aerospace industry.
As per the official statement released, American companies will gain access to high-quality launch sites in Australia. This is advantageous as they will be closer to the equator, allowing their rockets to use less fuel while receiving an additional boost due to the Earth's rotational speed. "They'll be closer to the equator, where the Earth spins the fastest, so their rockets get an extra boost and use less fuel," Blinken elaborated.
The TSA is set to enter into force once both parties confirm that all domestic requirements have been met. According to the press statement by the Office of the Spokesperson, the agreement serves to "help provide more opportunities for American and Australian firms to continue innovating, and innovating together."
