The passage of a three-ship naval task group off Australia’s east coast has been dismissed by some as a routine operation in international waters, a stance echoed by Chinese officials who accuse Australian politicians of “deliberately hyping” the issue. However, this event highlights broader concerns regarding Australia’s defence preparedness.

Many commentators have pointed to Australia’s naval shipbuilding shortcomings, citing generations of failure to meet necessary production numbers. The current shipbuilding program will not take effect until the 2030s, leaving a concerning capability gap. Yet, a more pressing question arises: what if the Chinese navy did enter Australian waters, or worse, sought to interfere with air and maritime movements by declaring an air defence identification zone, as they frequently do around Taiwan? Could Australia respond effectively?

The answer lies in the core principles of Australian defence policy in 2025. Military strategy is built on three pillars: ends, ways, and means. The 2024 National Defence Strategy outlines deterrence as a key objective, relying on diplomacy, economic strength, and military power. To support this, Australia must have an operational plan to deny open access to its waters, including a rapidly deployable maritime task group comprising frigates, submarines, and supply ships, alongside air power from the Royal Australian Air Force.

However, the critical issue remains the means. Australia’s defence capabilities will not fully materialise until the next decade, creating a shortfall in military readiness. While plans for new ships, submarines, and long-range missiles are crucial beyond 2030, the immediate need for an effective deterrence strategy remains.

One potential interim solution lies with the Australian Army. A rapid acquisition of land-based anti-ship missile systems could provide a credible deterrent against hostile naval incursions. Similar to Ukraine’s success in countering the Russian Black Sea Fleet, land-based strike capabilities could enhance Australia’s ability to protect its waters before new naval assets become operational.

The recent presence of a Chinese naval task group near Australian waters underscores the urgency of implementing an effective military strategy today, not years from now. Australia must address its defence vulnerabilities with immediate and pragmatic solutions to ensure national security in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific region.

Australia’s F88 rifle, history and evolution

https://cove.army.gov….​ https://cove.army.gov….​ https://cove.army.gov….​

The Australian Army is one of the most advanced and well-equipped military forces in the world, and a significant part of its strength lies in its powerful military vehicles. These machines are designed to tackle a variety of combat scenarios, ensuring the safety and security of the nation. From cutting-edge armoured vehicles to advanced tactical transporters, the Australian Army relies on some of the most sophisticated technology to maintain its operational superiority. In this video, we dive into the top 10 most powerful military vehicles of the Australian Army, showcasing the strength, versatility, and advanced engineering behind these formidable machines.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edd3_FIqWgA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

An MQ-9B SeaGuardian with the Sonobuoy Dispensing System installed under the inner wing hardpoint. (All images credit: GA-ASI)

SAN DIEGO – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has successfully tested its advanced Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, further cementing its status as the only remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) capable of carrying, deploying, and monitoring sonobuoys. The test, conducted from January 20-30, marks a major milestone in expanding the SeaGuardian’s role in anti-submarine warfare (ASW).

The SDS pods deployed multiple sonobuoys to conduct onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing. Utilizing Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph sonobuoys, the SeaGuardian successfully detected, tracked, and analyzed underwater targets, collecting critical acoustic intelligence. The tests correlated ejection speed with stress/strain data to refine future deployment capabilities, further advancing this cutting-edge technology.

“This demonstration represents a major leap forward in unmanned capabilities and marks a major milestone in proving that an unmanned aircraft can perform end-to-end persistent ASW operations,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The success of this testing paves the way for enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. We look forward to continued collaboration with the U.S. Navy as they explore innovative solutions for distributed maritime operations in the undersea domain.”

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks department played a key role in supporting and overseeing the development, ensuring that the system meets the evolving needs of naval warfighters. NAWCAD has partnered with GA-ASI in multiple ASW demonstrations, including the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in July 2024, demonstrating the increasing operational viability of unmanned ASW platforms.

SeaGuardian’s Expanding Role in ASW

Beyond its ASW capabilities, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian is a highly sophisticated UAV designed for multi-domain operations, including electronic warfare (EW). The platform boasts endurance ranging from 24 to 40 hours, depending on payload, and can cover a cruising distance of approximately 4,300 kilometers (2,322 nautical miles). Equipped with advanced sensors such as the Raytheon SeaVue XMC radar, GA-ASI Lynx Synthetic Aperture Radar, and Leonardo SAGE 750 electronic intelligence (ELINT) system, the SeaGuardian provides comprehensive maritime domain awareness.

GA-ASI first tested the SDS pods on an MQ-9A Block 5 in November 2020. More recently, the system was evaluated in February 2024 during an exercise with Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) at the Navy’s W-291 test range in Southern California, where a SeaGuardian deployed eight AN/SSQ-53 and two AN/SSQ-62 sonobuoys using a pneumatic ejection system developed by Italy’s AREA.

With these advancements, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian is poised to become an integral part of future ASW operations, working alongside manned platforms like the P-8A Poseidon to enhance maritime patrol and undersea surveillance.

Media Contact:
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

ED: I received this article in my inbox … I am providing this information as received I have no knowledge of blast pressure injuries or any recommendations for treatment if you feel you are affected, please do your own research.

CLICK LINK to read the Military.com article

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/02/06/blast-pressure-injuries-may-affect-more-brain-of-troops-new-data-shows.html

Hi Ray,

Very good article on BOP.

Attached references show that US Army and USMC have already identified the issues and adjusted training safety procedures. All available online.

Australia is far behind ADF studies and DVA support.  NZDF slowly catching up.

How do you get screened??

If you have had accepted (or are claiming) sensorineural hearing loss and/or tinnitus it means you highly likely to have been exposed to blast overpressure.  DVA will cover $$ of BOP Screening with specialist neurologist** under PAMT.

Paul Scanlan is the Australia POC leading the BOP fight in Australia. Contact details below.

Cheers

Richard McDonagh

**BOP SME is Vigil: he can advise on who are Australia’s BOP Specialist Neurologists.

Paul Scanlan 

Founder | Vigil Australia

Email | Instagram | LinkedIn

60 Minutes Australia: The Blast Wave (2024)

Renewable energy has been heavily promoted as the future of global energy production, with significant investments and policy support from governments worldwide. Despite this, the actual impact on the overall energy mix has been minimal. Currently, renewables account for only a modest 2% of the world’s total energy consumption, a figure that pales in comparison to the vast sums poured into the sector. Over the past five years, governments have collectively spent a staggering $5 trillion on renewable energy projects, subsidies, and infrastructure development. However, despite this enormous financial commitment, the shift away from traditional fossil fuels has been sluggish, with the overall energy landscape remaining largely unchanged. This raises important questions about the efficiency, scalability, and true viability of renewables in meeting the world’s growing energy demands.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall this week, with authorities warning it could impact heavily populated areas across hundreds of kilometres of coastline. The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast the category two system to cross the coast between Bundaberg and northern NSW on Thursday.

Currently located about 465 kilometres north-east of Brisbane, the cyclone is tracking south-east at 13 kilometres per hour. It is expected to move south-east on Monday before turning west and approaching the southern Queensland coast on Tuesday. Premier David Crisafulli has warned that the system could affect a large geographical area, bringing severe winds, coastal erosion, and widespread flooding.

Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks

Authorities are particularly concerned about heavy rainfall, with some areas expected to receive up to 600 millimetres in a short period. Regions already saturated by recent rains face heightened risks of flooding and landslides. A coastal hazard warning is in place from the K’gari coast to the NSW border, with predictions of abnormally high tides and damaging surf. A flood watch has also been issued for the Mary River down to the Gold Coast.

Residents in Bribie, Moreton, North and South Stradbroke, and the bay islands are advised to prepare for impacts, with barge and ferry services expected to cease later in the week. Local disaster authorities are closely monitoring the cyclone’s path, which is expected to move near Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast, bringing intense rainfall.

Safety Measures and Emergency Kit Essentials

Authorities are urging residents to begin preparations today by securing loose items, preparing sandbags, and reviewing emergency plans. A well-stocked emergency kit is essential for safety and survival. Recommended items include:

• Radio – Battery-powered, wind-up, or solar radio marked with local ABC Radio frequencies.
• Lighting – Waterproof torch and backup candles with waterproof matches.
• Drinking Water – At least 10 litres per person for three days.
• Food – Non-perishable items for three days, with necessary utensils.
• Batteries – Spare batteries for all devices (check them every six months).
• Toiletries – Soap, toilet paper, sanitiser, wipes, toothpaste, sanitary products, and face masks.
• Entertainment – Books and games for mental well-being.
• Cash – Sufficient funds for basic needs in case of power outages.
• First-Aid Kit – Fully stocked with up-to-date supplies.
• Photographs – Documentation of valuable household items.
• Pet Essentials – Food, medication, and updated microchip information.
• Medical Supplies – Prescription medications and equipment with usage instructions.
• Waterproof Bags – To protect important documents, IDs, and hard drive backups.

Ongoing Risks After Landfall

Even after Tropical Cyclone Alfred crosses the coast, its impacts will persist. Authorities warn that rain and storms could continue into the weekend, with floodwaters taking time to recede. Residents should stay informed through official channels and heed evacuation warnings if issued.

Now is the time to prepare—secure your home, gather supplies, and stay updated. Your safety and that of your loved ones is the top priority.