In light of growing regional security concerns over China, the Australian government recently commissioned a review of the country’s defence strategy. The Defence Strategic Review, which has just been released, recommends that Australia significantly increases its spending on defence to respond to these emerging threats.
The review also throws its weight behind the recently announced Aukus partnership between Australia, the US, and Britain. This partnership involves the creation of an Australian fleet of eight submarines powered by US nuclear technology, a move that has raised eyebrows around the world.
The objective of the review was to assess whether Australia has the necessary capability, posture, and preparedness to defend itself in the current strategic environment. Its findings are eye-opening and underscore the need for immediate action.
Key Findings of the Review: A Call to Arms
The review highlights a number of key findings, all of which underscore the pressing need for Australia to increase its preparedness for a possible conflict. These include:
- The need for increased spending on defence in order to build up Australia’s military capabilities
- The need to improve the Australian Defence Force’s ability to strike targets at longer ranges to counter the growing threat posed by China
- The need for domestic production of munitions to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and improve supply chain resilience
- The need to improve the force’s ability to operate from Australia’s northern bases, which are increasingly vulnerable to attack
- The need to deepen partnerships with key allies in the Indo-Pacific region, including India and Japan, to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the region
China’s Military Build-up: A Threat to Regional Stability
One of the most concerning aspects of the review is its assessment of China’s military build-up. According to the report, China’s military expansion is the largest and most ambitious of any country since the end of the Second World War. This build-up is occurring without transparency or reassurance to the Indo-Pacific region of China’s strategic intent, which is a major concern for Australia.
The review calls for a first-principles approach to managing and avoiding the highest level of strategic risk faced by Australia: the prospect of major conflict in the region that directly threatens its national interest. This requires a fundamental shift in Australia’s defence posture and preparedness.
Abandoning the Pursuit of Perfection: A New Approach
For the past five decades, Australia’s defence policy had been aimed at deterring and responding to potential low-level threats from small or middle-power neighbours. However, the review states that this approach is no longer fit for purpose in the current strategic environment.
The review emphasizes the need for Australia’s army, air force, and navy to focus on delivering timely and relevant capability while abandoning the “pursuit of the perfect solution or process” in its procurements. This means being more agile, adaptable, and innovative in responding to emerging threats.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The Defence Strategic Review is a wake-up call for Australia. It underscores the need for immediate action to increase the country’s preparedness for a possible conflict. The recommendations of the review, including increased spending on defence, deeper partnerships with key allies, and a new approach to defence procurement, must be taken seriously if Australia is to maintain its security and sovereignty in the face of emerging threats.
