Biak airbase is close to Darwin and Guam. Speculation over Russia’s interest has raised concerns—especially as shifting regional ties and Jakarta’s non-alignment could change how nearby nations manage strategic risks. Indonesia prioritises self-interest in partnerships

Global reliance on satellite networks is rising underlining the growing risk to vital defence and civilian space-based services. Starlink enabled Ukraine to maintain wartime connectivity. China has proposed laser-equipped submarines with retractable masts to target satellites.

Singapore has one of the most efficient and innovative small naval forces in the world balancing offensive power, disaster relief and modern technology. Helicopters belong to Air Force, not Navy. Patrols deter Malacca Strait piracy.

Despite warnings that tariffs will increase the costs of US defence procurement and affect global supply chains, the Trump administration has imposed punitive tariffs. Military shipbuilding, relying on mammoth quantities of steel could inflate defence budgets.

Costs, geopolitical uncertainty and climate neutrality pressures are forcing EU steel producers to convert to electrical and hydrogen furnaces. As defence is a major consumer of steel it needs to monitor these costs and outputs.

A new antenna under construction in Canberra will strengthen deep space communication—essential for managing distant missions and decoding data sent back from the outer reaches of the solar system. Only Canberra can fully contact Voyager 2.

A major trade conflict between the US and China would disrupt supply chains, drive up costs, and slow economic growth—likely sending shockwaves across global markets. Smartphones top US imports from China.

Domestic food production depends on imported inputs including fuel, AdBlue, fertiliser and, increasingly, labour. Covid-19 demonstrated Australia’s exposure to long and fragile supply chains. A National Food Security Strategy committed to by the Government.

Seabed Sentry is a cost-effective, flexible, underwater sensor network promising longer deployments, greater coverage, and real-time communication. The modular design can be used for seabed survey, port security, critical infrastructure protection, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare.

The Plan includes a 15-year outlook, but focuses on the next 4 years of critical investments to respond to strategic changes globally. Interoperability with Australia across multiple domains is heavily featured.