"We're a long way down that path and really, that's the thing that we need to [figure out] first," Richard Marles, Australia's deputy prime minister and defense minister, told Breaking Defense.
A total of 20 programs, including F-35 fighter jets to future Hunter-class frigates, face a combined 38 years of procurement delays, according to a new government report.
Protecting warfighters requires fast, accurate, and dependable systems that work flawlessly to military standards.
Richard Marles disclosed the meeting, which was unplanned and took flight from a dinner the two men attended: "We're sitting at the same table and we both agreed that it was important our two countries meet."
"We urge Australia to respect China's national security interests and major concerns, and to be cautious with its words and deeds so as to avoid a miscalculation that could cause serious consequences," Chinese Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zhao Lijian said.
"I think that the most important point to say to you, in 30 seconds is; this is just about the number one priority for me coming into this portfolio," Defense Minister Richard Marles said.
"What I have said, and we maintain, is that the relationship with China will remain a difficult one," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said at his swearing in. "It is China that has changed, not Australia."
The jet-powered transport’s speed, survivability and multi-mission agility position it as a viable option to the C-130 for the US and NATO allies.
With $70 million defense package to Ukraine, Australian PM says, "So yes, we have offered our prayers, but in Australia, we have also sent our ammunition."
It was a busy week in Australian politics, with accusations of Chinese meddling in the opposition Labor party and a text message scandal.
"This does not mean there are not constructive areas of engagement with China," Australia Foreign Minister Foreign Minister Marise Payne said at the State Department today. She then noted that "US leadership within the Indo-Pacific remains indispensable."
France and Australia must resolve major differences over the Aussies’ new submarine program before a new Australian government is elected next year, and the most obvious alternative is Japan.
The solution starts with an outstanding portfolio of Challenger and Global aircraft, recognized as the world’s top-performing business jets.