Global cloud computing giant Amazon Web Services has signed a $2 billion deal with the federal government to deliver a sovereign top secret cloud to host the nation’s most sensitive defence and military information.

The TS Cloud will be purpose-built for the defence and intelligence community, and will improve the nation’s ability to share and analyse the most highly classified data, the government says.

It will also boost the resilience of Defence’s communication networks, support ADF military operations and enhance collaboration with the US.

The investment is part of the $15‑20 billion committed to 2033-34 to enhance Defence’s cyber capabilities, and $8.5-11 billion to 2033-34 to bolster Defence’s enterprise data and ICT announced in the 2024 Integrated Investment Program.

Enhancing cyber capabilities is a priority under the National Defence Strategy, Defence Minister Richard Marles says.

“This cutting-edge technology will enhance Defence’s resilience, improve the ADF’s warfighting capacity, strengthen interoperability with key international partners and deliver up to 2,000 Australian jobs,” the minister said in a statement.

ASDF Director General Rachel Noble says enhanced cabability is also a vital part of the directorate’s REDSPICE program aimed at boosting intelligence and offensive and defensive cyber capabilities.

The TS Cloud builds on AWS’ planned $13.2 billion investment in Australian infrastructure to 2027, the largest tech investment in Australia’s history.

“AWS is uniquely positioned, as a trusted, long-term partner to the Australian government to deliver on this important partnership,” AWS Managing Director, Public Sector, Australia and New Zealand Iain Rouse said.

“This critical national security initiative allows AWS to demonstrate our commitment to not just deliver a fixed set of requirements, but to continuously adapt, enhance and innovate together over the years to come.”

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