Defence White Paper: Australia joins Asia's arms race with spending on weaponry and military forces

[mike2000 is back]

Australia will embark on a decade-long surge in weaponry and military forces to defend its land, sea, skies and space from Asia's rapidly growing military forces.

The 2016 Defence White Paper maps a course towards a total of $195 billion in defence capability or equipment by 2020-21, together with a larger military force of 62,400 personnel, the largest in a quarter of a century.

Joining an Asian-region mini arms race, the White Paper promises 12 submarines to be built at a cost of more than $50 billion between 2018-2057.

However, maintenance costs will push that $50 billion budget much higher.

Navy will scoop a quarter of all new spending on capability, with nine new anti-submarine warfare frigates and 12 offshore patrol vessels.

The RAAF will build up two fleets of drones while also bringing its eventual fleet of 75 Joint Strike Fighters online.

The Army will claim 18 per cent of all extra spending on equipment, buying armed drones, new protected vehicles to transport troops, helicopters for special forces and a long-range rocket system.

Underscoring a sense of urgency to the renewal of Australia's defence power, the Government is aiming to build spending up to 2 per cent of GDP by 2020/21 — earlier than previously promised — representing an overall increase of $29.9 billion.

Defence officials have told the ABC the White Paper reflects Australia's "growing discomfort" with China's military activity.

Climate change and terrorism listed as threats

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the Government was committed to the "significant increase in spending" due to regional challenges as well as the threat from climate change and terrorism, among other issues.

The factoring in of climate change was not planned under the Abbott Government.

"In the next two decades, half the world's submarines and at least half the world's advanced combat aircraft will be operating in the Indo-Pacific region, in our region, and this complicates the outlook for our security and strategic planning," Mr Turnbull said.

"We would be concerned if the competition for influence and the growth in military capability were to lead to instability and threaten Australia's interests, whether in the South China Sea, the Korean peninsula or further afield.We have a strong, vital, vested interest in the maintenance of peace, stability and respect for the rule of law."

The language of the White Paper points to a realisation that Australia needs to increase the "potency and agility" of its forces in the face of rising wealth and power in Asia, coupled with the strategic tension already arising between China and the United States.

"Territorial disputes … have created uncertainty and tension in our region," the White Paper notes.

"Some matters that previous defence white papers have described as long-term issues, such as the impact of modernisation in our region, now fall to this White Paper to respond to."

Australia continues to throw its military lot in with the United States, assessed to "remain the pre-eminent global power over the next two decades".

The White Paper aims to deepen Australia's alliance with America, including the relocation of a US spy telescope known as an "optical space surveillance telescope" to Exmouth in Western Australia.

On the path to building defence funding up to 2 per cent of GDP, the Government will also "de-couple" its spending on the military from the general health of the economy, so that even if growth slows, defence will still get its 2 per cent share.

US Ambassador to Australia John Berry described the White Paper as a "well-considered, comprehensive approach to addressing evolving security challenges of the coming decades".

"As allies, we welcome the Government's sustained investment in defence capabilities and readiness and its support for rules-based international order," he said.

Defence White Paper: Australia joins Asia's arms race with spending on weaponry and military forces to reach $195b

Good for Australia, they sure are boosting their military/naval might. They have already taken delivery of 2 LHD built by British Aerospace system in Australia.

Australia's HMAS Canberra & HMAS Adelaide LHD Navy Ships

Wish our leaders could order some for our own navy as well.

The Command and Control (C2) and Combat Systems will consist of:

• Combat Management System
• Extensive ICT infrastructure to support the ADF’s Command Support Systems and provide C2 capability for the embarked force
• 3D Air Search Radar
• Helicopter Control and Surface Radar
• Navigation Radar
• IFF capability, including Mode S
• ESM/ECM Suite
• Integrated communications system (internal and external), including a Message Handling System, Link 11 and 16, civil and military Satellite Communications
• Electro Optical and IR surveillance systems
• Integrated Navigation System, including an integrated bridge, navigation sensors, AIS and WECDIS.

The LHD will be fitted with a number of defensive systems including:

• Anti-Torpedo Towed Defense System (Nixie)
• Four 20 mm automated guns
• 6 x 12.7 mm machine guns
• Active missile decoy system – Nulka (weight and space reserve)

Major Statistics

• Length Overall 230.82m
• Moulded Beam 32.00m
• Beam Waterline 29.50m
• Flight Deck height 27.50m
• Draft at Full Load Displacement 7.08m
• Full Load Displacement 27,500 tonnes

The LHD utilises an electric drive system similar to that used by major cruise companies such as Cunard. The propulsion/generating plant includes the following main elements:

• One gas turbine (LM 2500) turbo generator of 19,160kW
• Two MAN 16V32/40 diesel generators of 7,448 kW each
• Two Siemens azimuth POD units of 11.0 MW each fitted with two propellers of approx 4.5m diameter
• Two bow thrusters of 1,500kW each
• One Progener-Mitsubishi S16MPTA emergency diesel generator of 1,350kW

Amphibious Assault Ship (LHD) | Royal Australian Navy

 

[Desertfalcon]

Good for Australia, they sure are boasting their military/navy might. They have already taken delivery of 2 LHD built by British Aerospace system in Australia.

Nice ships! Why not just call them...aircraft carriers?

 

[Tiqiu]

Oh yes, indeed. We are frenemies, have up and down relationship. The so called Japanese and Chinese member here is forgot, it was not Indonesia who give them the true nightmare, but the threat from the North it was, first the Japanese Empire and then the rising of China. The Australian never forgot the threat is always came from North, far North than Jakarta who is always had little fight against them over minor things. That's why they put emphasis more in engaging with Asia and put their security concern with their old allies in the West

But I don't think the rising China poses the threat to normal Aussie's life like some countries.

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia — RT News

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia
Published time: 25 Feb, 2016 20:23

Australia has warned its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Indonesia, citing a potential for new terror attacks. The state also advised reconsidering the need to travel to several of the country’s provinces.
“Recent indications suggest that terrorists may be in the advanced stages of preparing attacks in Indonesia,” a statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said.

“We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia, including Bali,” it added.

Read more
Indonesia reveals name of 1 of Jakarta terrorist killers, arrests 12 suspects
The department said that Australians should be especially cautious around locations that have a “low level of protective security,” as well as in places often considered terrorist targets, including nightclubs, bars, cafes, restaurants, international hotels, airports, and places of worship.

“An attack could occur anywhere at any time,” the statement says.

The statement also asked Australian citizens not to visit three Indonesian provinces – Central Sulawesi, Papua and West Papua – because of “additional safety and security risks.”

Australian Justice Minister Michael Keenan believes that any of the countries in region could be targeted for attack by terrorists – including Australia itself.

“Indonesia and our neighbors are all targets for [Islamic State]-inspired terrorism in the same way as Australia,” Keenan said, as cited by the Sydney Morning Herald.

“This is of grave concern for Australia and the Australian government. We are working in close co-operation with our neighbors to keep the region safe from terror,” he added.

Read more
At least 7 dead as Jakarta rocked by multiple explosions, gunfire in ISIS-related attacks
The statement comes four days after another warning was issued by the Australian government citing the possibility of terror attacks in Malaysia’s biggest city, Kuala Lumpur.

The security situation in Indonesia became a matter of concern after terrorist attacks in Jakarta on January 14, which killed eight people, including four terrorists. The Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL) terror group claimed responsibility for those attacks.

Between 500 and 700 Indonesians are said to have joined IS in Iraq and Syria, causing the Indonesian government to fear that they could return home to commit terror attacks, The Guardian reports. Moreover, several domestic separatist groups have been operating in Indonesia for decades.

The bloodiest attack in Indonesia ever, which left 202 people dead and more than 200 injured, was witnessed on the island of Bali in the tourist district of Kuta on October 12, 2002. It is thought to have been committed by the Jemaah Islamiyah terror group.

 

[Nike]

But I don't think the rising China poses the threat to normal Aussie's life like some countries.

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia — RT News

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia
Published time: 25 Feb, 2016 20:23

Australia has warned its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Indonesia, citing a potential for new terror attacks. The state also advised reconsidering the need to travel to several of the country’s provinces.
“Recent indications suggest that terrorists may be in the advanced stages of preparing attacks in Indonesia,” a statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said.

“We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia, including Bali,” it added.

Read more
Indonesia reveals name of 1 of Jakarta terrorist killers, arrests 12 suspects
The department said that Australians should be especially cautious around locations that have a “low level of protective security,” as well as in places often considered terrorist targets, including nightclubs, bars, cafes, restaurants, international hotels, airports, and places of worship.

“An attack could occur anywhere at any time,” the statement says.

The statement also asked Australian citizens not to visit three Indonesian provinces – Central Sulawesi, Papua and West Papua – because of “additional safety and security risks.”

Australian Justice Minister Michael Keenan believes that any of the countries in region could be targeted for attack by terrorists – including Australia itself.

“Indonesia and our neighbors are all targets for [Islamic State]-inspired terrorism in the same way as Australia,” Keenan said, as cited by the Sydney Morning Herald.

“This is of grave concern for Australia and the Australian government. We are working in close co-operation with our neighbors to keep the region safe from terror,” he added.

Read more
At least 7 dead as Jakarta rocked by multiple explosions, gunfire in ISIS-related attacks
The statement comes four days after another warning was issued by the Australian government citing the possibility of terror attacks in Malaysia’s biggest city, Kuala Lumpur.

The security situation in Indonesia became a matter of concern after terrorist attacks in Jakarta on January 14, which killed eight people, including four terrorists. The Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL) terror group claimed responsibility for those attacks.

Between 500 and 700 Indonesians are said to have joined IS in Iraq and Syria, causing the Indonesian government to fear that they could return home to commit terror attacks, The Guardian reports. Moreover, several domestic separatist groups have been operating in Indonesia for decades.

The bloodiest attack in Indonesia ever, which left 202 people dead and more than 200 injured, was witnessed on the island of Bali in the tourist district of Kuta on October 12, 2002. It is thought to have been committed by the Jemaah Islamiyah terror group.

Lol like it was organized by Indonesian gov. U should use ur brain a bit

But I don't think the rising China poses the threat to normal Aussie's life like some countries.

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia — RT News

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia
Published time: 25 Feb, 2016 20:23

Australia has warned its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Indonesia, citing a potential for new terror attacks. The state also advised reconsidering the need to travel to several of the country’s provinces.
“Recent indications suggest that terrorists may be in the advanced stages of preparing attacks in Indonesia,” a statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said.

“We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia, including Bali,” it added.

Read more
Indonesia reveals name of 1 of Jakarta terrorist killers, arrests 12 suspects
The department said that Australians should be especially cautious around locations that have a “low level of protective security,” as well as in places often considered terrorist targets, including nightclubs, bars, cafes, restaurants, international hotels, airports, and places of worship.

“An attack could occur anywhere at any time,” the statement says.

The statement also asked Australian citizens not to visit three Indonesian provinces – Central Sulawesi, Papua and West Papua – because of “additional safety and security risks.”

Australian Justice Minister Michael Keenan believes that any of the countries in region could be targeted for attack by terrorists – including Australia itself.

“Indonesia and our neighbors are all targets for [Islamic State]-inspired terrorism in the same way as Australia,” Keenan said, as cited by the Sydney Morning Herald.

“This is of grave concern for Australia and the Australian government. We are working in close co-operation with our neighbors to keep the region safe from terror,” he added.

Read more
At least 7 dead as Jakarta rocked by multiple explosions, gunfire in ISIS-related attacks
The statement comes four days after another warning was issued by the Australian government citing the possibility of terror attacks in Malaysia’s biggest city, Kuala Lumpur.

The security situation in Indonesia became a matter of concern after terrorist attacks in Jakarta on January 14, which killed eight people, including four terrorists. The Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL) terror group claimed responsibility for those attacks.

Between 500 and 700 Indonesians are said to have joined IS in Iraq and Syria, causing the Indonesian government to fear that they could return home to commit terror attacks, The Guardian reports. Moreover, several domestic separatist groups have been operating in Indonesia for decades.

The bloodiest attack in Indonesia ever, which left 202 people dead and more than 200 injured, was witnessed on the island of Bali in the tourist district of Kuta on October 12, 2002. It is thought to have been committed by the Jemaah Islamiyah terror group.

Lol like it was organized by Indonesian gov. U should use ur brain a bit

 

[Viet]

"the White Paper promises 12 submarines to be built at a cost of more than $50 billion between 2018-2057.
However, maintenance costs will push that $50 billion budget much higher."

$50 billion for 12 subs, $4.1 billion for 1. is every sub gold plated with all comforts for the captain and crew?

 

[Indos]

Australia's economy is slowing, so it s not a wise thing to do

I dont think Australia will help USA if there is a war between two countries (USA/China) in SCS, similar thing is also true for Singapore in SCS issue.

So is it for Indonesia...? I guess it is a mistake if it is aim for us because we are not going to attack Australia since it is a crazy thing to do (something that might worried Aussie is our KFX/IFX and rocket program).

Maybe 1/2 to support USA and 1/2 because of Indonesia military future projection (2030)

12 submarine...? Just like our plan though......

I believe Indonesia and Australia will still have a warm relation in the future, we dont have any territorial dispute anymore since East Timor independence.

 

[mike2000 is back]

Nice ships! Why not just call them...aircraft carriers?

Lol well, guess others can call it whatever they want.
The Austrialian government is serious about its defence needs and to reassert itself in an increasingly volatile Asia. Guess its because of this that they are deepening their alliance wih the U.S and NATO as a whole.
I also admire their government selective immigration policy. Taking in primarily the skilled/educated.

 

[911]

Australia is preparing for war against China.

 

[mike2000 is back]

But I don't think the rising China poses the threat to normal Aussie's life like some countries.

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia — RT News

Australia warns travelers of likely new terror attacks in Indonesia
Published time: 25 Feb, 2016 20:23

Australia has warned its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Indonesia, citing a potential for new terror attacks. The state also advised reconsidering the need to travel to several of the country’s provinces.
“Recent indications suggest that terrorists may be in the advanced stages of preparing attacks in Indonesia,” a statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said.

“We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia, including Bali,” it added.

Read more
Indonesia reveals name of 1 of Jakarta terrorist killers, arrests 12 suspects
The department said that Australians should be especially cautious around locations that have a “low level of protective security,” as well as in places often considered terrorist targets, including nightclubs, bars, cafes, restaurants, international hotels, airports, and places of worship.

“An attack could occur anywhere at any time,” the statement says.

The statement also asked Australian citizens not to visit three Indonesian provinces – Central Sulawesi, Papua and West Papua – because of “additional safety and security risks.”

Australian Justice Minister Michael Keenan believes that any of the countries in region could be targeted for attack by terrorists – including Australia itself.

“Indonesia and our neighbors are all targets for [Islamic State]-inspired terrorism in the same way as Australia,” Keenan said, as cited by the Sydney Morning Herald.

“This is of grave concern for Australia and the Australian government. We are working in close co-operation with our neighbors to keep the region safe from terror,” he added.

Read more
At least 7 dead as Jakarta rocked by multiple explosions, gunfire in ISIS-related attacks
The statement comes four days after another warning was issued by the Australian government citing the possibility of terror attacks in Malaysia’s biggest city, Kuala Lumpur.

The security situation in Indonesia became a matter of concern after terrorist attacks in Jakarta on January 14, which killed eight people, including four terrorists. The Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL) terror group claimed responsibility for those attacks.

Between 500 and 700 Indonesians are said to have joined IS in Iraq and Syria, causing the Indonesian government to fear that they could return home to commit terror attacks, The Guardian reports. Moreover, several domestic separatist groups have been operating in Indonesia for decades.

The bloodiest attack in Indonesia ever, which left 202 people dead and more than 200 injured, was witnessed on the island of Bali in the tourist district of Kuta on October 12, 2002. It is thought to have been committed by the Jemaah Islamiyah terror group.

To be honest, China doesn't really represents any immediate threat to Australia. Though it could be a long term threat depending on how things play out in future and Australia alliance with U.S/NATO.

However as Australia joins the U.S in asserting itself/patroling and securing its interests in SCS/pacific, she will have to contend or cooperate with all countries involved in the region. Australia says no plan to stop surveillance flights over South China Sea | The Japan Times

Why do you think Australia granted access to the U.S to station its military personnel in its territory? Its as a reassurance/security guarantee.

Amyway, i believe Asia will be the centre of future events Interesting.

 

[Penguin]

you're the one that fail to see the bulk of traffic is to and from china. the chinese don't choke themselves. so, what is there for them to worry about than trying hard acting like good doggy lol

If you don't (want to) get it, you don't get it.

If you are going to post like an A-hole, please move on to another forum.
Plenty of jerks here already, only few serious posters.

 

[jhungary]

"the White Paper promises 12 submarines to be built at a cost of more than $50 billion between 2018-2057.
However, maintenance costs will push that $50 billion budget much higher."

$50 billion for 12 subs, $4.1 billion for 1. is every sub gold plated with all comforts for the captain and crew?

50 billions is not just for the sub, it also for the maintenance centre and dry dock equipment as well as training and spares. We don't just buy the sub off the shelf and put it back to whoever sell that to us when the sub is having problem.

So, 50 billions for the whole project is quite logical.

 

[MarveL]

China angered by Australia military spending boost

Image
Image captionThe purchase of unmanned drones, plus previously announced plans to buy seventy-two Joint Strike Fighters and 12 Growler electronic warfare aircraft, were outlined in Australia's Defence White Paper
China has responded angrily to Australia's Defence White Paper which outlines a surge in military spending.

A boost of A$29.9b ($21.4b, £15.4b) over the next decade reflects concern over military expansion in the region.

The white paper reiterates Australia's objection to the reclamation of land in the South China Sea and urges ASEAN and China to agree on a code of conduct.

China says it is "seriously concerned" and has expressed its "dissatisfaction" over the defence strategy.

Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Hua Chunying asked Australia to "take realistic actions" to work with China to maintain peace and stability in the region.

"In the hopes of relieving tensions and the possibility of an arms race, we hope that relevant countries can give up joint drills and stop increasing their military presence in the region," Ms Chunying said.

The largest investment outlined in the White Paper on Thursday is for submarines to replace Australia's current diesel and electric-powered Collins Class vessels. At a cost of more than A$50b it represents Australia's largest-ever defence procurement.

About 25% of the additional spending will be put towards the most "comprehensive regeneration of our Navy since the Second World War", the Defence document says.

Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the threats faced by Australia were not limited to foreign conflicts, but also included terrorism, cyber-warfare and climate change.

"[This] is a plan to become more powerful on land and in the skies, and more commanding both on the seas and beneath them. It is a program to be more resilient in the cyberspace, to be more innovative with technology, and to have greater situational awareness thanks to our advanced intelligence capabilities," Mr Turnbull said on Thursday.


China angered by Australia military spending boost - BBC News

 

[jhungary]

Australia's economy is slowing, so it s not a wise thing to do

I dont think Australia will help USA if there is a war between two countries (USA/China) in SCS, similar thing is also true for Singapore in SCS issue.

So is it for Indonesia...? I guess it is a mistake if it is aim for us because we are not going to attack Australia since it is a crazy thing to do (something that might worried Aussie is our KFX/IFX and rocket program).

Maybe 1/2 to support USA and 1/2 because of Indonesia military future projection (2030)

12 submarine...? Just like our plan though......

I believe Indonesia and Australia will still have a warm relation in the future, we dont have any territorial dispute anymore since East Timor independence.

In a way, I will say it is for a war with China, and it is not.

For Australia, these upgrade is long overdue. I mean, look at the Australian Navy.....I spend 2 days in Fleet Base East, and I virtually visited all the RAN ship. I cannot do that if I were in San Diego or Richmond.

The Defence white paper outline the Australian need and what is safeguarding Australian interest, and that interest lies in South China Seas, that would be where our focus was.

If China were making trouble in SCS? Then China will be Australian Enemies as it have a direct conflict to Australian Interest. Alternatively, if the Vietnamese is making trouble in South China Seas, then Vietnam would be Australian Enemy as they are in direct conflict of national interest of Australia.

Will Australia go to war with China? Who knows? But does that mean we should not have a way to safeguard our interest?

Nice ships! Why not just call them...aircraft carriers?

they aren't aircraft carrier because they are intended to only support offshore operation as well as humanitarian mission, I think of all the country operating LHD (US, France, the UK, Japan, Spain and so on) we are the only one that operate LHD as they are supposed to be, a LHD.

 

[Viet]

50 billions is not just for the sub, it also for the maintenance centre and dry dock equipment as well as training and spares. We don't just buy the sub off the shelf and put it back to whoever sell that to us when the sub is having problem.

So, 50 billions for the whole project is quite logical.

understood. but nevertheless that is fcking crazy expensive. VN navy acquires 6 Russian subs with weapons, cruise missiles, training, naval base, simulator and everything. so we must have paid some $25 billion?

 

[jhungary]

understood. but nevertheless that is fcking crazy expensive. VN navy acquires 6 Russian subs with weapons, cruise missiles, training, naval base, simulator and everything. so we must have paid some $25 billion?

Well, I cannot answer you this question, you may want to check out this site.

Australia's future submarines – Parliament of Australia