Diversified export routes reduce dependence on single maritime choke points. Saudi Arabia has diverted exports through its East-West pipeline network, and the UAE increased pipeline use beyond Hormuz waters. Bab el-Mandeb Strait (Red Sea) also vulnerable.

New flagship projects have been launched by NATO with Gulf partners to enhance maritime security, strengthen counter-uncrewed aerial systems capabilities, improve CBRN defence and counter-terrorism cooperation, and reinforce regional resilience under the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative.

China’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve has grown into a major energy security asset that could provide geo-economic influence, allowing the country to exercise leverage on other nations, protect national security, influence alliances and punish adversaries.

Aviation cybersecurity safeguards remain partially implemented, with gaps identified in network monitoring, identity management, zero-trust adoption and organisational responsibilities, highlighting the need for stronger cyber resilience across interconnected aircraft, airport and airspace systems.

The author argues Canada's submarine decision creates opportunity for Australian capability planning. A mixed submarine fleet may provide greater long-term operational flexibility. The accompanying commentary highlights the complexity, costs and the workforce demands of the proposal.

NATO will invest more than US$40 billion in counter-drone capabilities, expand drone operator training and accelerate procurement through standardised systems, with the aim of strengthening Alliance readiness, interoperability and resilience against evolving un-crewed aerial threats.

Germany is expanding its Arrow 3 missile-defence network with a second Bavarian site, extending national ballistic missile interception coverage and supporting a distributed, layered architecture aligned with broader NATO defence requirements.

The new joint defence declaration encourages greater interoperability and information sharing as a strategic priority. Consultation on Indo-Pacific developments and coordinated regional responses to trade coercion included. Civil nuclear cooperation includes renewed Australian uranium exports.

NATO launched new multinational space initiatives to strengthen satellite connectivity, surveillance, launch capability and missile tracking, enhancing Alliance resilience, space-based intelligence and operational responsiveness through greater integration of sovereign national space assets.

Australia is moving to establish national artificial intelligence rules balancing innovation, infrastructure, energy, water and copyright protections; aiming to provide certainty for investment while protecting creators, communities and long-term national interests. Dedicated AI Office planned.