Defence strategic review: Australia will build longer range military power amid ‘radically different’ security environment
Guardian
Australia to Buy $4.7B US Missiles Amid Asia-Pacific Tensions
Australia Overhaulsto DefenseBuy Strategy$4.7B US Missiles Amid ChinaAsia-Pacific ConcernsTensions
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The Facts
The review recommends six priority areas, including the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines, long-range strike capabilities, and strengthening northern military bases.Australia Tuesday announced a $4.7B deal to arm its warships with US medium- and long-range missiles, inline with its new defense strategy unveiled earlier this year. The SM-2 IIIC and SM-6 missiles will be placed on the Royal Australian Navy’s three Hobart-class destroyers.
China's military buildup is described as "the largest and most ambitious of any country" since World War II, occurring without transparency or reassurance to the Indo-Pacific region.Australia's purchase of the "most advanced air defence missiles in the world" follows the country becoming the first — other than the US itself — to reportedly fire an SM-6 in August. Australian Defense Minister Pat Conroy said they would defend Australia "in the missile age.”
The Spin
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Australia is unnecessarily hyping up the "China threat" narrative. China is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific and does not pose a challenge to any country. Australia's increased military spending and focus on long-range strike capabilities may contribute to regional tensions and an arms race, potentially undermining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.
