By Tim Barrett and Arthur H. ‘Trip’ Barber III
Australia is at a watershed moment in naval capability with the fleet’s regeneration over the next decade as a consequence of the 2016 defence white paper and the investment decisions flowing from it.
As the 2015 First Principles Review of Defence noted, capability must reflect strategic policy: the Royal Australian Navy needs a fleet that’s integrated into the doctrine and structure of the joint force and is interoperable with the forces of our key allies. In light of the rapid strategic changes in the region and the nation’s likely financial position after the Covid-19 pandemic, this fleet must be sharply focused on identifying, achieving and sustaining critical capabilities as economically as possible.
