Australia Plans To Build Largest Navy Since WWII Amid Rising Indo-Pacific Tensions

Australia has announced ambitious plans to strengthen its naval capabilities, revealing a project that will be the country’s most significant maritime expansion since World War II. The move indicates a major strategic shift, which will allocate over USD 35 billion over the next ten years due to rising Indo-Pacific tensions, especially with China.

The strategy intends to strengthen Australia’s position amid changing security threats amid increasing concerns over China’s aggression. Analysts have noted that Australia must enhance its naval capacity to respond successfully to the shifting geopolitical scenario.

According to the plan, the Royal Australian Navy plans to increase its fleet of main surface warships to 26 vessels. The fleet will include twenty destroyers, frigates, and six large optionally crewed surface vessels (LOSVs) that can function as drones or be manually operated by sailors on board.

An essential component of naval growth is the development of nuclear-powered submarines, which is being carried out in partnership with the United States and the United Kingdom under the AUKUS treaty. The arrival of the first three submarines is expected in the early 2030s, significantly increasing Australia’s maritime capabilities.

Australian Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond underlined the importance of a strong navy in protecting national interests and regional stability. He highlighted the need to adequately provide the Navy with the resources to handle the evolving strategic challenges.

The initiative to increase naval capabilities comes as China has dramatically expanded its naval footprint, boasting the world’s largest Navy and claiming territorial claims in contested regions. The decision demonstrates Australia’s commitment to challenge China’s growing influence and defend its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific.

The naval expansion project, expected to be completed in the mid-2040s, will provide a powerful fleet capable of dealing with various security concerns. The redesigned fleet will include modernized destroyers, frigates with superior anti-submarine warfare capabilities, and adaptable surface ships with long-range missile systems.

Australia also intends to invest in smaller vessels for offshore patrol and maritime security. The major naval renovation represents a determined effort to update Australia’s defence infrastructure while adapting to the region’s evolving security dynamics. Nonetheless, Australia’s commitment to upgrading its naval capabilities demonstrates its will to protect its interests and contribute to regional stability amid increasing instability in the Indo-Pacific.

Reference: ANI

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Source: Maritime Shipping News