Australia presented a plan on Tuesday (February 20) to strengthen its navy to a level not seen since the Second World War and more than double the number of its main combat ships over the next decade in the context of the arms race in Asia -Peaceful.
Under the plan, Canberra will increase its defense spending by more than €6.5 billion, and will have 26 large surface combatants, up from 11 at present.
“This is the largest fleet we will have since the end of the Second World War
,” Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles said.
“The Royal Australian Navy must be capable of ensuring the safety and security of our shipping routes (...) as they are essential to our way of life and prosperity
,” he added.
2.4% of national GDP
Australia will build six Hunter-class frigates, 11 multi-role frigates and six advanced surface combatants capable of operating unmanned.
Several ships will be armed with Tomahawk missiles capable of carrying out long-range strikes deep inside enemy territory - an important instrument of deterrence.
The announcement comes after a massive increase in firepower from China and Russia, and amid growing confrontation between Washington's allies and authoritarian governments.
Australia, which formed the Aukus military alliance with the United States and the United Kingdom, seeks in particular to counter China's influence in the South Pacific.
The plan is to see Australia increase its defense spending to 2.4% of its gross domestic product (GDP), above the 2% target set by its NATO allies.