The Royal Australian Navy has drawn the Sea Power Conference to a close after three intense days of presentations, bilateral meetings, industry engagements and discussions on the future of naval operations and maritime capabilities. The Sea Power Conference explored the theme ‘Navy and the Nation’ and featured presentations on the critical role a high-functioning industrial base plays in supporting a burgeoning naval enterprise.
Alongside the Pacific 2017 International Maritime Exhibition, the conference provided the opportunity to showcase Australian industry and ingenuity while increasing understanding between the organisations.
The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, said the three-day conference run alongside the Pacific international maritime exposition attracts leading strategists on maritime matters and affords an opportunity to consider the future of the Navy and its place on the global stage.
“This year’s conference has seen compelling presentations on the significant changes we can expect in the next 30 years,” Vice Admiral Barrett said.
“The navies of today are facing more uncertain threats than ever before and bringing together academia, political and military leaders helps all nations grapple with the challenges we face.
“With the significant investments Australia is making in the maritime domain over the coming decades, the world’s attention is on Australia and how we are working with industry in preparing for the future.
“We took the opportunity this week to showcase Australian capabilities to our international partners and explain what we bring to multi-national responses to emerging threats and relief efforts.
“With our latest and greatest warship, HMAS Hobart, alongside in Sydney, we have been able to show the high calibre of Australian defence industries and the depth of capability in our fleet.
“Navy senior leadership have met with 37 countries and held extensive discussions on how we can all work more cooperatively to share information, expertise and through it, maintain a rules-based order on the high seas.”
