Australia's Defence Force Contemplates a New Era of Submarines

Australia's Defence Force is currently undergoing a massive shift in its submarine fleet. The nation has decided to abandon its previous plan to upgrade its Collins-class submarines and instead opt for a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. This new decision is part of the Australia-UK-US security agreement, also known as AUKUS, that was signed in September 2021. This agreement is expected to increase Australia's defence capabilities, but it has also sparked controversy and concerns about safety and delays.

The Australian government's previous plan to upgrade the Collins-class submarines had a projected cost of $80 billion and a delivery date of 2050. However, under the AUKUS agreement, Australia will collaborate with the United States and the United Kingdom to build eight nuclear-powered submarines. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some hailing it as a significant step forward in Australia's defence capabilities, while others have raised concerns about the cost, safety, and feasibility of the project.

The AUKUS agreement aims to strengthen the security relationship between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The agreement has been described as a strategic partnership designed to counter China's rising military power in the Indo-Pacific region. The new submarines are expected to give Australia an edge in the region, but they will also require significant investment and infrastructure development.

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According to a recent report, a US Navy Admiral, William Hilarides, has been appointed to review Australia's submarine fleet under the AUKUS agreement. Admiral Hilarides' review is expected to examine the feasibility and viability of the project, including the cost, delivery schedule, and safety aspects of the new submarines. The review is expected to take several months, and its results will be closely monitored by the Australian government and its citizens.

The Australian Defence Force is currently facing multiple challenges in its fleet modernisation efforts. In addition to the submarine project, the force is also considering investing in new fighter jets, frigates, and unmanned systems. These projects are expected to require significant investment and coordination, and the force is currently grappling with budget constraints, skills shortages, and strategic planning.

One proposal that has been put forward is to establish a national shipbuilding company that could deliver the new submarine fleet and other defence projects. The proposal has received support from some quarters, who argue that a national shipbuilding company could provide long-term economic benefits and help to build up Australia's skills and expertise in defence manufacturing.

However, the proposal has also been met with criticism, with some arguing that it could lead to bureaucratic delays and inefficiencies. There are also concerns that a national shipbuilding company could create a monopoly that could stifle innovation and competition in the defence sector.

So, Australia's decision to abandon its previous plan to upgrade its Collins-class submarines and opt for a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines has sparked controversy and concerns about safety and delays. The AUKUS agreement aims to strengthen the security relationship between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, but it will also require significant investment and infrastructure development. The Australian Defence Force is currently facing multiple challenges in its fleet modernisation efforts, and the proposal to establish a national shipbuilding company has received both support and criticism. The review by Admiral Hilarides is expected to provide valuable insights into the feasibility and viability of the new submarine fleet project.

Keywords: Australia, Defence Force, submarines, AUKUS, Collins-class, United States, United Kingdom, security, China, infrastructure development, budget constraints, national shipbuilding company.

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