Australia To Spend $1.5 Billion To Upgrade Its Maritime Surveillance
Australia will likely spend $1.5 billion to enhance maritime surveillance of northern approaches, getting additional long-range and advanced drone aircraft and upgrading its Poseidon (unique maritime patrol aircraft).
The fleet that boasts 14 Boeing maritime patrol aircraft (P-8A Poseidon) will have anti-sub warfare, maritime strikes, and intelligence collection skills enhanced, Pat Conroy, the Minister for Defence Industry, mentioned in a statement on Tuesday.
The fourth Northrop Grumman-built drone aircraft — MQ-4C Triton, built with the US Navy, will be in the Northern Territory of Australia, nearest to Asia, and run by a squadron based in South Australia.
Triton has long-range surveillance abilities and will extend to the Australian maritime region, as specified in the statement.
The purchase of another additional Triton will enhance operations from Australian northern bases, a major priority under the Defence Strategic Review, per Conroy.
The review in April 2023 mentioned that the US was no longer the unipolar leader of Indo-Pacific, that the competition between China and the U.S. was defining the region, and major power competition also bore the potential for future conflict.
It further recommended the northern bases of the country become the focal point to deter adversaries and safeguard trade channels and communications.
The Australian Poseidon aircraft has carried out its patrols in the waters of the South China Sea and has operated from a Japanese airbase to enforce the UN Security Council’s sanctions on North Korea.
Conroy said that the Poseidon aircraft upgrades are expected to strengthen the safety and security of Australia’s “maritime interests”.
References: ABC News, The Print, WION
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
Latest Shipping News You Would Like:
Get the Latest Maritime News Delivered to Your Inbox!
Our free, fast, and fun newsletter on the global maritime industry, delivered everyday.