BLUF
The conflict highlights a growing sustainability problem — sophisticated weapons can provide effective protection, but limited stocks, high costs and lengthy production times constrain future options. "Qualitative edge will always allow us to win" is a fallacy.Learning Outcomes
Technology & Innovation: Develop an awareness of how technology and innovation can contribute to capability. The article demonstrates the advantages of sophisticated interception systems while highlighting the limitations created by high unit costs, production capacity and lengthy manufacturing times.
Strategic Influences: Develop an awareness of Australia's strategic environment and how nations attempt to shape that environment. The article highlights how weapons expenditure and depleted stockpiles can affect future strategic choices, including the ability to respond to other potential conflicts.
Military Management: Develop an awareness of military management regarding technology, innovation, trends and future development. The article raises the management challenge of balancing small numbers of highly capable systems with larger numbers of affordable weapons that can be produced rapidly.
