The Australian Army is nearing completion of tests for the AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzer, featuring a three-round burst and automated loading capabilities, in South Korea. Two AS9s, modelled after the South Korean K9 Thunder, and an AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicle have been acquired from South Korea. Additionally, a new Hanwha Defence Australia factory near Avalon, Victoria, is under construction for the production of the remaining 42 vehicles, set to commence in Australia late this year.

Hanwha Defence Australia has collaborated with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to integrate Australian 155mm shells, including the new Rheinmetall Assegai munitions. Major Brendan Kelleher, part of the project team under Land 8116, emphasized that the ongoing tests are crucial to ensuring the compatibility and safety of the Australian ammunition with the Korean cannon.

Once compatibility is established, subsequent tests will focus on collecting ballistics data required for using the AS9 with the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems, utilized for calculating and coordinating firing. Further testing in Australia will concentrate on evaluating the vehicle’s protection against small arms fire and shrapnel. This includes shooting slugs into metal samples to understand the levels of protection.

Recent blast testing in Israel involved a full-size AS9 hull fitted with crash test dummies, cameras, and sensors. An explosive charge was detonated at the base of the vehicle to simulate the effects of a land mine. The results of these tests will inform design changes aimed at ensuring the vehicles provide the necessary protection and survivability for soldiers.

Major Kelleher expressed positive feedback from other users, noting their impressions of the platform’s maturity and ease of use. The AS9 represents a significant increase in range and lethality compared to the in-service towed howitzer, thanks to the longer cannon and higher rates of fire. For junior gunners and non-commissioned officers, managing both a cannon and an armoured vehicle presents a challenging yet exciting step up, likely with greater autonomy than they might have on a normal gun line.

Hulls and turrets for the AS9 will be manufactured by Elphinstone, a company located on the north coast of Tasmania. The first AS9 to be completed in Australia is expected to roll out by the end of 2025.

The Government has recently extended its collaboration with BAE Systems Australia, signing stage two of a facility services deed valued at $110 million. This is in addition to the initial commitment of $100 million made in 2022. Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy emphasized that doubling the investment with BAE Systems Australia will solidify Hunter Valley’s position as an F-35 sustainment hub in the Indo-Pacific.

The increased funding will empower BAE Systems Australia to construct seven additional maintenance bays, boosting the overall capacity to 13 bays. This expansion aims to accommodate the growing F-35 fleet in the Indo-Pacific region. Newcastle Airport might also play a role in supporting a global F-35 fleet, projected to surpass 3,000 aircraft.

This development follows the initial facility services deed signed in November 2022, focusing on the construction of four new F-35 maintenance bays at BAE Systems Australia’s South Hangar, Newcastle Airport. Currently, 63 out of Australia’s 72 F-35A Lightning II aircraft have been accepted, with all 72 scheduled for sustenance and upgrades at the Hunter facility.

Minister Conroy highlighted that this contract extension more than doubles the government’s initial investment, showcasing the commitment to fostering the defence industry. He emphasized Australia’s role as a crucial provider of maintenance and sustainment services for the global F-35 fleet, with the Hunter designated as an Indo-Pacific hub for F-35 repair and maintenance.

A spokesperson from BAE Systems Australia revealed the company’s expansion at Williamtown to meet the demands of the growing RAAF F-35A fleet. The North Hangar construction program will add up to seven new hangar bays for F-35 sustainment, aligning with the broader expansion plan that includes the establishment of an Aircraft Coating Facility for future F-35 fleet sustainment.

Soldiers and officers hailing from over 30 diverse units spanning the entire country dedicated three weeks at Irwin Barracks, 13th Brigade, engaging in comprehensive preparations for their imminent deployment to Rifle Company Butterworth (RCB) in Malaysia. The training was a crucial aspect of RCB Rotation 142, ensuring the contingent’s readiness for the challenges that lay ahead.

Commending the commitment of the participating members, Commander 13th Brigade Brigadier Brett Chaloner expressed gratitude for the volunteers, emphasizing their significant role in enhancing the security and stability not only of Australia but also the broader region and partner nations. He underscored the importance of the deployed personnel as military diplomats and ambassadors, representing the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force on an international stage.

Brigadier Chaloner urged the contingent to actively cultivate relationships, embrace curiosity, and make the most of the invaluable experiences that the deployment would offer. Recognizing the soldiers’ role as not just warriors but also as representatives of their nation, the Commander encouraged them to build bridges and foster goodwill during their time in Malaysia.

Australia’s enduring and robust relationship with Malaysia was highlighted, emphasizing the historical presence of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) at the Royal Malaysian Air Force Base Butterworth since 1970. This presence is a result of the Five Power Defence Agreement, a geo-strategic pact that has strengthened the collaboration between the two nations over the years.

In addition to the deployment in Malaysia, RCB Rotation 142 includes a collaborative training component with the Singapore Army in Singapore. This cross-border training initiative underscores the interconnectedness of regional defence efforts, enhancing interoperability among allied forces.

The training activities during RCB Rotation 142 will cover a spectrum of critical areas, including live-fire serials, jungle warfare tactics, techniques, and procedures, as well as urban warfare. These comprehensive exercises aim to sharpen the skills of the contingent, ensuring they are well-prepared to face a variety of scenarios in diverse environments. The soldiers and officers will be exposed to real-life situations, fostering adaptability and resilience in the face of evolving challenges.

As the deployment unfolds, the Australian contingent will not only contribute to the security of the region but also strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation with Malaysia and Singapore. This multifaceted approach to international collaboration underscores the commitment of the Australian military to fostering stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region.

DESPITE their immense collective self-belief, the inhabitants of Canberra’s Fort Zinderneuf don’t always get things right.

Those acolytes who flutter about The Chief in rapt expectation of his profound insights, like North Koreans around Kim Il Sung, notebooks and pencils poised to record every gem, should look beyond the Great Leader for other examples.

This past New Year’s Eve Italian Tripoli Giannini marched off aged 111 years and 133 days at Cecina, Tuscany.

The old soldier’s son said his father believed he was immortal, which gave him at least one thing in common with The Chief.

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Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)

Australia Day, observed annually on the 26th of January, is the official National Day of Australia. While it commemorates the 1788 landing of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove and the raising of the Union Flag by Arthur Phillip, misconceptions and controversy surround the celebration. My article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the historical events surrounding Australia Day, address the misconceptions, and emphasize the need for education on its significance.

Australia Day’s Historical Roots:

Contrary to popular belief, Captain Arthur Phillip did not arrive in Australia on the 26th of January. The First Fleet reached Botany Bay on the 18th of January, and Captain Cook’s landing occurred on the 28th of April 1770. The choice of the 26th as Australia Day has a different historical basis. Despite this, the emphasis on Captain Cook’s landing has led to a fading understanding of the day’s true significance over the generations.

Challenges in Education and Media Representation:

The fading importance of Australia Day can be attributed to a lack of effort from politicians and educators in promoting its true meaning. The media, too, has played a role in fanning the flames of discontent, particularly among the Aboriginal community, leading to calls for changing the date. However, the real challenge lies in the misconceptions perpetuated by inadequate education and biased media representation.

Acknowledging the Dark Chapters of History:

It is essential to recognize the dark chapters of Australian history, particularly the suffering of the Aboriginal community under British colonialism. Both the landing of the First Fleet and the impact on Aboriginal Australians should be remembered and taught side by side in schools, emphasizing the importance of understanding and learning from the entirety of Australia’s history.

The Birth of Australian Nationality:

The 26th of January 1949 marked a pivotal moment in Australian history when the Australian Nationality came into existence with the enactment of the Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948. This legislation granted all Australians, including Aboriginal Australians, the status of Australian citizens, separating them from the previously imposed label of ‘British Subjects.’

Freedom, Protection, and Unity:

The implementation of the Nationality and Citizenship Act of 1948 was a significant step towards ensuring the freedom and protection of all Australians under Australian law. It was a day when Australians, regardless of background, became united as one nation. The Act paved the way for the government to assist Aboriginal Australians and marked the beginning of a new era of unity and protection under Australian law.

Australia Day as a Celebration of Unity:

Australia Day, on the 26th of January, continues to be a day of celebration for both old and new Australians. Citizenship ceremonies held on this day symbolize the implementation of the Nationality and Citizenship Act of 1948, granting individuals the right to live under the protection of Australian law. It is a day to remember and celebrate the achievements that have allowed all Australians to live without fear in a land of peace.

The Importance of Education:

Education emerges as a key factor in dispelling misconceptions surrounding Australia Day. There is a pressing need for a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of the historical events leading to the celebration of January 26th. This knowledge should be disseminated through schools and other educational platforms to ensure that Australians understand the true significance of the day.

Conclusion:

Australia Day holds profound historical significance beyond the arrival of the First Fleet. It marks the birth of Australian nationality, symbolizing freedom, protection, and unity for all Australians. As misconceptions continue to cloud the understanding of this day, it becomes imperative to prioritize education to ensure that the true meaning of Australia Day is appreciated and celebrated by all. By acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of history, Australians can come together to embrace their shared identity and appreciate the journey towards a united and inclusive nation.

By Ray Payne OAM

Australia’s military is undergoing a significant transformation in response to a rapidly changing global security landscape, marking the most substantial shift in defence strategy since the 1980s. The federal government, endorsing this transformation on Monday, is heeding the assessment of former ADF chief Sir Angus Houston and former defence minister Stephen Smith, who emphasized the urgent need for the nation to adapt to the emerging “missile age.”

The Defence Strategic Review, conducted by these experts, reveals a departure from the decades-long focus on “lower-level threats” such as terrorism, signalling a recognition that the world has evolved. The review underscores the challenges posed by China’s substantial military buildup, the proliferation of long-range precision strike weapons, and the diminished geographic advantage previously enjoyed by Australia.

Considering these changes, the review dismisses the assumption that Australia would have a decade to prepare for conflict, emphasizing the reduced comfort of distance. While invasion remains a remote possibility, concerns now centre around potential military force and coercion threats impacting trade and supply routes.

To address the growing focus on the Indo-Pacific region, the federal government intends to “harden the north,” reallocating defence spending to fortify northern bases and ports. Integration across all military domains – army, navy, air force, cyber, and space – is emphasized, with a particular emphasis on restructuring the land forces.

The initially planned costly project involving armoured infantry vehicles will be abandoned in favour of developing a long-range strike force. This move aims to enhance Australia’s self-reliance for sea projection, reducing dependence on allies like the United States. Simultaneously, diplomatic and military ties in the region, including those with the US, India, and Japan, will be strengthened.

Changes will extend to the navy, pending decisions after a review by US Navy Vice Admiral William H Hilarides. The acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines within the next decade will reshape the navy’s role, ensuring efficiency for surface vessels. Barracks upgrades and other lower-priority infrastructure projects will be delayed or abandoned in favour of a swift upgrade to northern bases.

Although the exact cost remains undisclosed, the federal government is set to increase defence spending over the next decade, as affirmed by Defence Minister Richard Marles. The government plans to allocate $19 billion for implementing proposals from the Defence Strategic Review, offsetting some costs through $7.8 billion in downgraded and scrapped projects. This comes in addition to the $270 billion allocated in 2020 for defence over the next decade and the $368 billion committed for the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines over the next 30 years. Criticisms have been levelled at the former government for committing to $42 billion worth of unfunded defence projects since 2020, necessitating additional funding.

1. If a bottle of poison reaches its expiration date, is it more poisonous or is it no longer poisonous?
2. Which letter is silent in the word “Scent,” the S or the C?
3. Do twins ever realize that one of them is unplanned?
4. Every time you clean something, you just make something else dirty.
5. The word “swims” upside-down is still “swims”.
6. Over 100 years ago, everyone owned a horse and only the rich had cars Today everyone has cars and only the rich own horses.
7. If people evolved from monkeys, why are monkeys still around?
8. Why is there a ‘D’ in fridge, but not in refrigerator?
9. As I’ve grown older, I’ve learned that pleasing everyone is impossible, but annoying everyone is a piece of cake!
10. I’m responsible for what I say, not for what you understand.
11. Common sense is like deodorant. The people who need it the most never use it.
12. My tolerance for idiots is extremely low these days. I used to have some immunity built up, but obviously, there’s a new strain out there.
13. It’s not my age that bothers me – it’s the side effects.
14. I’m not saying I’m old and worn out, but I make sure I’m nowhere near the curb on trash day.
15. As I watch this generation try and rewrite our history, I’m sure of one thing: it will be misspelled and have no punctuation.
16. As I’ve gotten older, people think I’ve become lazy. The truth is I’m just being more energy efficient.
17. I haven’t gotten anything done today. I’ve been in the Produce Department trying to open this stupid plastic bag.
18. If you find yourself feeling useless, remember it took 20 years, trillions of dollars, thousands of lives and four presidents to replace the Taliban with the Taliban.
19. Turns out that being a “senior” is mostly just googling how to do stuff.
20. I want to be 18 again and ruin my life differently. I have new ideas.
21. I’m on two simultaneous diets. I wasn’t getting enough food on one.
22. I put my scale in the bathroom corner and that’s where the little liar will stay until it apologizes.
23. My mind is like an internet browser. At least 18 open tabs, 3 of them are frozen, and I have no clue where the music is coming from.
24. Hard to believe I once had a phone attached to a wall, and when it rang, I picked it up without knowing who was calling.
25. My wife says I keep pushing her buttons. If that were true, I would have found mute by now.
26. There is no such thing as a grouchy old person. The truth is that once you get old, you stop being polite and start being honest.

In a strategic move to bolster the ranks of the Defence Force and retain skilled personnel, the government has invested significantly in a continuation bonus program. This initiative, introduced in response to a significant exodus of personnel from the armed forces, aims to encourage members to commit to an additional three years of service.

As part of the program, Defence personnel who meet certain criteria are eligible for a one-off $50,000 bonus, designed to serve as a financial incentive that cannot be achieved through adjusting pay scales. This lump sum payment, established in May’s federal budget, is not tax-deductible and is expected to benefit up to 3400 personnel within the next three years.

Defence Minister Matt Keogh emphasized the importance of retaining highly skilled and trained individuals within the Defence Force, acknowledging the need to recruit more personnel while ensuring the continued contribution of those who have already undergone significant training. Around 85 percent of eligible early to middle ADF ranks have reportedly taken up the continuation payment, indicating a positive response to the initiative.

The continuation bonus program is divided into different categories, each offering varying amounts based on specific criteria. Category A bonuses, which can go up to $200,000, target individuals critical to capability and who commit to an agreed period of service. Similarly, Category B bonuses, with a maximum value of $100,000, focus on specific employment categories and workgroups critical to the Defence Force’s objectives.

For members of the Reserves in Service Category 4 (SERCAT 4), there is a separate Reserve capability completion bonus of $5,000. Eligibility for this bonus requires serving for 12 months as SERCAT 4, meeting the minimum specified days of service, and fulfilling conditions outlined in a written agreement.

However, certain conditions exist for eligibility, and individuals may not qualify for a bonus if they are medically unfit for service, are less than a year away from retirement or the end of their fixed period of service or have received a notice for termination under specific sections of the Act or Defence Regulation.

Additionally, there is a provision for repaying the bonus under circumstances such as not completing the agreed period of service, voluntary departure from the position, transfer between services or reserves, resignation, or termination of service.

In summary, the government’s investment in the continuation bonus program reflects a commitment to strengthening the Defence Force by retaining and incentivizing skilled personnel, ultimately contributing to the nation’s security and defence capabilities.

John Schumann (centre) with The Waifs, (from left) Donna Simpson, Josh Cunningham, and Vikki Thorn.(Supplied: Glenn Morgan)

After four decades since its initial release in 1983, the iconic song “I Was Only 19” by John Schumann, the lead singer-songwriter of Redgum, has been re-recorded. Recognized by The Australian War Memorial as “the quintessential song of the Australian Vietnam War veteran,” the song was originally unveiled during a time of deep division in public opinion regarding the Vietnam War.

The newly recorded version of the song brings together the original artist, John Schumann, with the West Australian folk rock band The Waifs, and features the expertise of acclaimed producer Shane Nicholson. The collaborative effort aims to capture the essence of the original while infusing a fresh perspective into the narrative.

“I Was Only 19” draws inspiration from the experiences of Schumann’s brother-in-law, Mick Storen, a Vietnam War veteran who served with The Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) in 1969. Reflecting on the song, Schumann expressed, “I Was Only 19 made us stop and realize: ‘These blokes, they did it so tough’ — they deserved more.”

In an effort to support the children of Australian Defence Force families involved in recent conflicts, all artist royalties from the re-created song will be donated to the Commando Welfare Trust (CWT). Schumann emphasized that the contributions would address needs such as the kids’ activities and services not covered by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

The Waifs, known for their storytelling prowess and distinctive Aussie accent, brought a new dimension to the song, according to Schumann. He praised their ability to convey the war experience with sensitivity and authenticity, noting, “They just had a nice sensibility, the way they told stories, the Aussie accent … so I jumped at that.”

The decision to incorporate a female voice in the reimagined version was intentional, with Donna Simpson of The Waifs lending her vocals to open the track. Schumann emphasized the importance of capturing the perspective of mothers, wives, sisters, and girlfriends who endured the pain of watching their loved ones march away.

With the addition of various instruments, including the dobro played by Shane Nicholson, slide guitar by Josh Cunningham of The Waifs, and harmonica by Schumann, the re-recorded version achieved a unique and mournful sound.

Shane Nicholson, the producer, recalled being moved by the song as a child and felt a sense of responsibility to acknowledge its 40th anniversary in a significant way. Reflecting on the experience, Nicholson highlighted the enduring power of the song and the respectful approach taken in building upon its legacy.

Retired Major Steve Pilmore OAM RFD, an ambassador for the Commando Welfare Trust, commended John Schumann’s deep understanding of veterans’ experiences. Major Pilmore emphasized that the CWT focuses on supporting those affected by war, acknowledging the challenges faced by returning veterans and the importance of maintaining a robust support structure.

As the re-recorded version of “I Was Only 19” pays tribute to the original while contributing to a meaningful cause, it stands as a testament to the enduring impact of the song and its ability to resonate across generations.