Amazon Secures $2B Deal for Australian Top-Secret Data Center

The Australian government has entered into a partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to develop a cloud-based system for storing and managing top secret intelligence data. The initiative, known as the Top Secret Cloud (TS Cloud), will involve an initial investment of at least $2 billion, though the total cost is expected to be significantly higher over time. The project aims to enhance Australia's cyber capabilities, improve defense force interoperability with the United States, and create up to 2,000 local jobs. The exact locations of the data centers and specific content details remain undisclosed.

The TS Cloud will be built through three data centers at undisclosed locations across Australia, leveraging AWS's expertise in classified cloud services. The infrastructure will support agencies such as the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and the Australian Secret Intelligence Service, and is expected to incorporate advanced artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles have emphasized the project's role in bolstering national security and fostering stronger security cooperation with the US.