Amazon, a US tech giant, is set to establish a “top-secret” data cloud in Australia to store classified military and intelligence information in a $2 billion partnership with the federal government. Three high-security data centers will be built at undisclosed locations in the country to support the Top Secret (TS) Cloud managed by a local subsidiary of Amazon Web Services (AWS). The project, expected to be operational by 2027, will utilize cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology, with the government ensuring complete sovereignty over the cloud.
Similar data clouds already exist in the US and UK, facilitating the sharing of vast amounts of information, as intelligence agencies point out that potential adversaries are also investing heavily in similar technology. The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) and AWS will collaborate on the project, initially funded with at least $2 billion by the government, with additional operating costs expected in the future.
The Director General of National Intelligence Andrew Schearer disclosed details of the project in a speech to an American audience, emphasizing the advantages of partnership between countries. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese anticipates the creation of 2,000 jobs through the project, enhancing national defense and intelligence capabilities to ensure top-notch protection for the nation.
ASD CEO Rachel Noble highlighted the importance of the project in providing a cutting-edge collaborative space for storing and accessing top-secret data. This initiative aligns with the REDSPICE program aimed at strengthening intelligence and cyber capabilities. AWS Australia managing director Iain Rouse expressed the company’s commitment as a long-term partner of the Australian government to deliver on this crucial venture, emphasizing continuous adaptation, improvement, and innovation.
In conclusion, the establishment of the “top-secret” data cloud in Australia by Amazon in partnership with the federal government represents a significant investment in national security infrastructure. The project signifies a milestone in collaboration between public and private sectors to enhance intelligence and defense capabilities, safeguarding classified information and improving cybersecurity measures for the nation.
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https://amp.abc.net.au/article/104057196