The Australian authorities published an overview of the defense strategy for the coming years on Monday. It provides for prioritizing the development of long-range precision missiles, domestic production of guided weapons systems and diplomacy. The Australian Prime Minister called the report “the most significant work done since World War II”.
A published non-confidential version of a confidential report states that United States are no longer the “unipolar leader in the Indo-Pacific region” because presently it is characterized by an intense American-Chinese rivalry. This rivalry – as it was emphasized – “potentially threatens conflict”.
In this situation Australia emphasizes the defense of its northern bases and the trade routes and communication systems located there.
The authors of the document emphasize that China they are currently implementing the largest arms program since World War II and are engaged in a strategic rivalry with the US in the immediate vicinity of Australia. Therefore, the overarching goal is to “prevent the prospect of a major conflict in the region.”
Missile exercises at the training ground in Australia’s Northern TerritoryRoyal Australian Army
In the “missile age”, the military threat no longer lies in the need for a land invasion, so it is necessary to develop long-range precision missiles and strengthen military cooperation with the US, the document states.
Defense spending over the next four years has been set at A$19 billion.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the defense strategy review “the most significant work done since World War II”. – It shows a world where the challenges to our national security are constantly evolving. We cannot rely on old assumptions. We must build the strength of our security by shaping the future, not expecting the future to shape us.”
Main photo source: Royal Australian Army