Australia and the United States have announced plans to start producing guided weapons together next year, in a move to bolster supplies to allies in the Indo-Pacific region. This collaboration will also enhance the US military presence in Australia, particularly with the deployment of bombers.
Both countries are already working on upgrading air bases in northern and western Australia, strategically located closer to potential conflict zones in the South China Sea. Following the annual AUSMIN talks, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed an increase in the presence of rotating US forces in Australia.
In a joint statement, concerns were raised over China’s military activities in the South China Sea and around Taiwan, as well as its aggressive behavior towards Philippine ships in the Philippine EEZ. Australia’s Defense Minister emphasized that the US forces in Australia play a crucial role in deterring threats in the Indo-Pacific.
The upcoming collaboration on producing guided missiles marks a significant step towards strengthening the defense cooperation between Australia and the US, further solidifying their alliance in the region.
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