BLUF
This article from ASPI argues that Australia’s long-range strike capability should come online in 2024, but its effectiveness could be reduced without a sophisticated targeting system including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets.Summary
This article by Marcus Hellyer in the Strategist makes the following points:
- Recent government announcements continue related to the 2020 strategic defence update and 2016 defence white paper programs.
- Raytheon and Lockheed Martin will work with the Australian Missile Corporation and the Sovereign Missile Alliance to produce missiles here.
- There will likely be an accelerated acquisition of the JASSM-ER (joint air-to-surface standoff missile—extended range), the NSM (naval strike missile) and maritime mines for $3.5 billion.
- The JASSM-ER ( (joint air-to-surface standoff missile—extended range)) will be upgraded so that it can be delivered by the F/A-18F and later the F-35A, improving the capability lost with the Classic Hornet’s retirement.
- The Navy’s major surface combatants (but not Offshore Patrol Vessels) will eventually acquire NSMs LRASM’s (long-range anti-ship missiles).
- Hypersonics are now in the AUKUS partnership.
- Russia is already using hypersonic missiles in Ukraine.
References
Recent Runway Posts related to this topic:
- Loyal Wingman to be called 'Ghost Bat' The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
- B-21 bomber could be Australia’s best long-range strike option | The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
References from the Web:
- APR 2022 Australia to build hypersonic missiles with US, Britain- Nine News
- APR 2022 Australia steps up missile upgrade due to growing threats from China and Russia-NPR
- APR 2022 Australia to Develop Hypersonic Missile Capability- VOA
Source The Strategist (ASPI):
- Link to Source: | The Strategist | ASPI’s analysis and commentary site (aspi.au)
- Media Check: About us | Australian Strategic Policy Institute | ASPI
- RAAF RUNWAY: RATIONALE, GUIDELINES, LEARNING OUTCOMES, ETC |
