Australia Bolsters Naval Defenses with $7 Billion US Missile Purchase
Canberra, Australia – In a significant move to bolster its defense capabilities, the Australian government has announcedthe purchase of US-made Standard missiles for a hefty $7 billion Australian dollars (approximately $33 billion USD). The acquisition, confirmed in a statement releasedon October 22nd, aims to enhance the Royal Australian Navy’s air and missile defense capabilities.
The missiles in question are the Standard 2 BlockIIIC and Standard 6 models. The former, an upgraded version of the Standard 2, is a dedicated air defense missile, while the latter boasts both air defense and anti-ship capabilities, considered the most advanced naval air defense missile inthe US arsenal.
Australia’s Air Force Chief of Materiel, Air Marshal Melvyn Phillips, confirmed that the $7 billion purchase will be funded from the existing $30 billion Australian defense budget. Deputy Prime Minister and Defense MinisterRichard Marles emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition, stating that the missiles will enhance the Navy’s ability to strike targets at sea, on land, and in the air at long range, and provide terminal ballistic missile defense.
This significant investment in naval air defense comes amidst a broader shift in Australia’s defensestrategy. In 2023, the government declared its intention to prioritize long-range precision strike capability and the hardening of northern bases, marking the most substantial defense strategy adjustment since World War II.
Australia’s 2022 Defense Strategic Review highlighted the diminishing geographical advantage in the modern warfare landscape, particularly in the face of a missile age for which Australia was ill-prepared. The acquisition of the Standard missiles, according to Australian Defense Industry Minister Pat Conroy, who is currently visiting Washington D.C., has been a long-standing plan for the Australian Defence Force.
Conroy stated that Australia is facing the most complex geostrategic environment since World War II, and that the rapid enhancement of the Navy’s long-range strike capability is crucial for strengthening Australia’s military deterrence.
References:
- Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
- Reuters
- Radio France Internationale (RFI)
- Phoenix News
Note: This article draws upon information from the provided sources and incorporates the requested writing style and structure. It also includes a conclusion summarizing the main points and emphasizes the significance of the purchase for Australia’s defense strategy.
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