Chinese Intelligence Collection Vessel Haiwangxing operating off Australia. Australian Department of Defence Photo

China’s military activities in the past fortnight have underscored a stark reality—Beijing will continue aggressive manoeuvres in the South China Sea and beyond. Australia must prepare for more frequent and prolonged visits by advanced Chinese warships, along with continued discrepancies between China’s words and actions.

Three key lessons emerge from recent developments.

1. China’s Military Will Keep Targeting Australia

On 11 February, the Department of Defence reported the fifth known incident of unsafe Chinese military behaviour toward the Australian Defence Force. That same day, a powerful Chinese naval task group was detected in Australia’s northeastern maritime approaches. A week later, Defence confirmed the resumption of high-level military talks with China—the first since 2019. However, just days later, on 21 and 22 February, the Chinese task group conducted two live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea, causing commercial aircraft to adjust flight paths with little notice. Foreign Minister Penny Wong raised concerns with her Chinese counterpart at a G20 meeting in South Africa. These events highlight China’s willingness to challenge Australia while engaging in diplomatic discussions.

Expect China’s military to continue testing Australia and other nations that defend freedom of navigation and overflight. A forthcoming ASPI report will track unsafe incidents involving China’s military against Australia, the US, Canada, the Netherlands, the Philippines, and other countries resisting Beijing’s excessive maritime claims.

2. China’s Words and Actions Don’t Align

China’s readout of the 17 February defence talks emphasised “strategic communication” and handling disputes peacefully. Yet, its actions—such as its South China Sea assertiveness and undisclosed military exercises—contradict these claims. While China’s tactics may shift, its broader strategy remains unchanged: expanding influence and testing adversaries.

3. Expect More Chinese Naval Deployments

Since 2022, China has increased naval operations near Australia’s exclusive economic zone. Originally focused on coastal defence, Beijing’s navy has evolved into a global force, deploying task groups to the Gulf of Aden since 2008 for counter-piracy missions. These deployments, lasting about four months, have been constrained by limited support ships and overseas bases. However, that is changing.

The US Department of Defence reported in December 2024 that China plans to build additional fleet replenishment oilers to extend its navy’s operational reach. With 12 oilers already supporting long-distance deployments, Beijing is prioritising logistical expansion. China’s only overseas base, in Djibouti, along with a presence in Cambodia’s Ream naval base, signals efforts to bolster its naval infrastructure.

As China strengthens its global naval reach, Australia’s limited naval capabilities will face growing pressure to monitor increased Chinese activity. Ensuring regional stability and maintaining freedom of navigation will require sustained vigilance and strategic adaptation.

Monday was a historic day for the TPI Federation of Australia and all fellow TPIs.  The TPI Federation President has stepped down from power. (Copy attached).

Posted by Peter Barnes

I have created another video with more Australian Vietnam War photos with more images of tracker dogs. Images in the video are Australians in the Army, Air Force, and Navy, in the Vietnam War. Sadly, I read that Peter Haran recently passed away aged 76. Peter served as a Corporal in the 2nd and 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, and did two tours of Vietnam. He authored the book ‘Trackers’…. The book is a gritty and moving story that reveals the Australian Army’s little-known use of combat tracker dogs during the Vietnam War. From memory, Peter Haran and I crossed paths in the early 2000s at the ABC building in Adelaide, when he was talking about his book and I was asked to talk to Peter Goers on his radio programme about the Australian War Heroes Song I authored. Rest In Peace Peter Haran. I hope I have got this right… in order of arrival in Vietnam, the tracker dogs were Cassius Justin Caesar Marcus Tiber Janus Julian Milo Trajan Juno Marcian Vietnam Veterans’ Day in Australia is on August 18, which is the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. It’s a day to honour the service and sacrifice of Australians who fought in the Vietnam War. 521 Australians died during Australia’s involvement in the war, from 1962 to 1973. Around 3,000 Australians were wounded in the Vietnam War. This includes those who were injured, ill, or otherwise wounded during the war. More than 63,000 men were conscripted into the Australian Army during the Vietnam War. Of nearly 16,000 national servicemen who served in the war, over 200 died and at least 1,200 were wounded on active duty. Lest We Forget. The video also features the backing track for the Australian War Heroes Song titled ‘Can You Hear Australia’s Heroes Marching?’, authored by me in 2001. Video titled ‘More Australian Vietnam War Photos’ created by Peter Barnes on the 24th of February, 2025.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston, AC inspects the Parade. Photo by Kasumi Hamon

The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) has conducted its annual Chief of Defence Force (CDF) Parade, marking the completion of initial training for first-year Trainee Officers (Midshipmen and Officer Cadets).

The Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, reviewed and addressed the Parade, welcoming the new Trainee Officers to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

In his inaugural parade at the Academy as Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral Johnston said it is a very proud moment and an important milestone for the Midshipmen and Officer Cadets, and their families.

“The ADF of today greatly requires what the Academy produces in its officers. The National Defence Strategy calls for an integrated force, and the foundation of that integration starts here at ADFA. What you learn here will set you up for the first steps of your career.

In the years ahead you’ll reflect on your time here, and I hope you will do so with pride. My sincere best wishes to you all, and I look forward to recognising many more of your achievements over the coming years,” said Admiral Johnston.

This year ADFA welcomed 360 incoming Trainee Officers, including 21 international students representing 12 nations including Brunei, Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, Solomon Islands, Thailand, Vanuatu, Philippines, Vietnam, New Zealand and Pakistan.

International Trainee Officers will go on to use the skills they develop at ADFA to build successful military careers in their respective countries Armed Forces.

Welcoming the first ever Indonesian, Solomon Island and Vanuatu Trainee Officers to ADFA, Commandant ADFA Brigadier Troy Francis, said this is a significant step in our commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships in our region.

“Studying alongside international Trainee Officers develops valuable skills for future ADF leaders; the ability to collaborate effectively towards a common goal is vital to the success of any mission,” BRIG Francis said.

ADFA offers world-class education plus cutting-edge military and leadership training to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills and attributes to be a future leader in the ADF.

The Trainee Officers will now commence University of New South Wales (UNSW) delivered degrees in Arts, Business, Engineering, Science, Cyber and Information Technology, in conjunction with ongoing military training.

Australia must rapidly equip its key maritime aircraft with AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. Doing so would make China think twice before harassing Australian and allied aircraft. Integration should be straightforward and could even provide opportunities to assist partner nations.

Since 2022, Chinese fighters have repeatedly attacked Australian and Canadian aircraft in international airspace. These aggressive tactics—including dropping chaff and flares dangerously close—have targeted P-8A Poseidons, MH-60R Seahawks, and Canada’s CH-148 Cyclone. In some cases, flares have come within 30 meters of aircraft, posing a severe threat by potentially causing structural damage or engine failure.

Beijing employs these methods to force foreign aircraft out of contested areas like the South China and Yellow Seas. Since these tactics stop short of using traditional weapons, China faces no political or military consequences. Australia’s response has been limited to diplomatic statements calling the actions “unsafe and unprofessional,” which does nothing to deter further incidents.

The solution is deterrence. Equipping Poseidons and Seahawks with AIM-9X missiles would change the risk equation. Even limited integration—allowing simple forward-firing capability—would force Chinese pilots to reconsider their aggression. They could no longer conduct close-range attacks without risking being shot down.

Integrating the AIM-9X is feasible. The missile is self-contained, requiring only basic integration with the aircraft. The British achieved similar results during the Falklands War, and the U.S. has equipped AH-1Z helicopters with AIM-9X, proving it can be done. Australia could also offer its expertise to allies, strengthening collective defence.

Arming these aircraft won’t guarantee China backs off, but it will make Beijing think twice before endangering Australian personnel.

By Russell Berman

This is a 22-page eBook that some of you may find interesting

Table of Contents

The Roots of Socialist Repression in The Communist Manifesto …………………………. 9

Criticism of Bolshevism from the Left: Rosa Luxemburg …………………………….. 12

Party Leadership, the Working Class,

and the End of East German Socialism ……………………………………………………….. 16

Endnotes ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 20

CLICK LINK to open the book

Leaving Socialism Behind eBook Final

Milrem Robotics Release

Milrem Robotics, the world’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer, launched its highly anticipated 8×8 Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) at IDEX 2025. Representing the pinnacle of next-generation hybrid unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) technology, the new HAVOC RCV is set to revolutionize modern combat operations.

“The HAVOC RCV has been engineered to deliver unparalleled agility and high-speed manoeuvrability, enabling commanders to project force effectively across extended distances,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics. “Its robust design and advanced hybrid propulsion system allow for integrating large-calibre weaponry while maintaining precision and superior lethality on the battlefield. As a versatile and reliable force multiplier, this platform redefines operational effectiveness for today’s dynamic and complex combat scenarios.”

At the heart of HAVOC is an advanced hybrid electric powertrain, which ensures an extended operational range and near-silent movement capabilities. These features enhance stealth and make the vehicle adaptable for various mission requirements. By sharing common subsystems with other Milrem Robotics platforms, such as the Tracked RCV, HAVOC significantly reduces development, procurement, and maintenance costs, ensuring cost efficiency and streamlined logistics.

Weighing substantially less than conventional manned 8×8 vehicles, the RCV boasts superior off-road performance, making it highly effective in rugged terrains. Its cutting-edge electric driveline delivers instantaneous torque, enabling faster response times and enhanced mobility. Additionally, the vehicle’s pivot steering capabilities allow for a dramatically reduced turning radius, ensuring optimal manoeuvrability in environments ranging from open deserts and urban combat zones to high-altitude mountain passes.

The 8×8 RCV is designed with a baseline payload capacity of five tons, offering exceptional flexibility for integrating mission-specific payloads or weapon systems. Importantly, modifications within this payload limit do not compromise the vehicle’s performance, ensuring seamless adaptability to operational needs. Furthermore, it operates on a unified autonomy ecosystem that aligns with Milrem’s existing platforms, guaranteeing compatibility and scalability across a diverse range of autonomous solutions.

“With the launch of the 8×8 RCV, we are setting a new standard in unmanned ground combat systems,” said Henrik Kotkas, Chief Product Officer at Milrem Robotics. “This platform combines cutting-edge technology with practical design considerations to deliver unmatched operational capabilities. It exemplifies our commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of modern armed forces.”

The debut of the HAVOC 8×8 Robotic Combat Vehicle at IDEX 2025 underscores Milrem Robotics’ position as a pioneer in autonomous military technology. As defence forces worldwide seek solutions to enhance operational efficiency and survivability, the 8×8 RCV emerges as a transformative asset capable of reshaping the future of ground combat operations.

eWise Blog

The Albanese government has announced an expansion of Australia’s immigration program, allocating an additional 26,500 visas for Afghan nationals between now and 2026. The program aims to reunite refugees with their families in Australia, providing a pathway for settlement and integration into Australian society. While immigration has long been a cornerstone of Australia’s development, it also raises important discussions about cultural assimilation, economic impact, and national security.

Cultural Integration and Assimilation

One of the key concerns surrounding large-scale immigration is the ability of new arrivals to assimilate into Australian society. Effective integration involves learning the English language, respecting Australian laws and customs, and participating in the workforce. Without this, there is a risk of creating isolated communities that do not fully engage with the broader Australian way of life. Historically, successful immigration policies have emphasized the importance of shared values, national identity, and a commitment to social cohesion.

Legal and Social Considerations

Australia operates under a rule of law that applies to all citizens and residents. Concerns have been raised about individuals who may prefer to follow alternative legal frameworks, such as Sharia law, which may conflict with Australian legal principles, particularly regarding gender equality, freedom of expression, and secular governance. The government must ensure that all immigrants, regardless of background, fully adhere to Australian laws and integrate into the legal framework without exception.

Economic Impact and Workforce Participation

A well-managed immigration system should contribute positively to the economy. While some refugees and migrants integrate successfully and contribute through employment and business ownership, others remain dependent on government welfare systems. Policies should encourage economic self-sufficiency by prioritizing employment and education opportunities for new arrivals. This could include requiring immigrants to demonstrate employment or educational engagement before being granted permanent residency or citizenship.

National Security Considerations

A responsible immigration policy should also take national security into account. Border control and thorough vetting processes are essential to ensure that those entering Australia do not pose a security risk. Immigration should be based on merit and alignment with Australian values rather than an unchecked expansion that could lead to social discord.

Policy Recommendations

To ensure a successful immigration system that benefits both new arrivals and the Australian public, the following measures could be considered:

1. Stronger Language Requirements: Ensuring all migrants attain a functional level of English before permanent residency.
2. Extended Citizenship Pathways: Increasing the residency requirement before granting citizenship to ensure long-term commitment to Australian values.
3. Workforce Participation Incentives: Encouraging self-sufficiency through employment and reducing long-term welfare dependency.
4. Legal Compliance Assurance: Requiring explicit adherence to Australian laws and rejecting any attempts to introduce alternative legal frameworks.
5. Enhanced Security Screening: Strengthening background checks to mitigate potential security risks.

Conclusion

Australia has a long history of successful immigration, but this success is built on the principle of integration and shared values. While humanitarian efforts are important, they must be balanced with policies that ensure national unity, economic sustainability, and security. By implementing policies that promote assimilation, economic contribution, and legal adherence, Australia can continue to be a welcoming nation without compromising its foundational values.

ED: This was a letter to the editor in my local newspaper – well said!

I emigrated to Australia over 60 years ago. On the ship, there were English, Italians, Germans, Yugoslavs, Poles, Dutch, and Greeks—all Europeans—each looking forward to starting a new life in this great country.

I arrived with just 30 quid in my pocket—that’s all I had to my name. Did I put my hand out for help? No. Like so many others, I rolled up my sleeves, found a job, and worked hard to build a future. That was the way back then—if you wanted a better life, you earned it.

Now, I see a different Australia, one where some new arrivals seem to feel entitled rather than grateful. Instead of embracing our way of life, some demand that we change to suit them. If I had arrived here and didn’t like what I saw, I would have had the choice to leave—and I believe that same choice still exists today.

We welcome immigrants—Australia was built by them. But integration is key. Over the years, people from all backgrounds have come here, worked hard, and contributed while respecting the culture they joined. They learned the language, followed the laws, and became part of the broader Australian community.

Yet today, we see pressures to change longstanding Australian traditions to accommodate certain groups. We’re seeing calls for additional public holidays, school canteens adjusting menus without consultation, and even debates over our National Anthem being sung in different languages. Australia has always been an inclusive and fair country, but when does inclusion become surrendering the values that make us who we are?

We welcome immigrants—Australia was built by them. But integration is key. Over the years, people from all backgrounds have come here, worked hard, and contributed while respecting the culture they joined. They learned the language, followed the laws, and became part of the broader Australian community.

Yet today, we see pressures to change longstanding Australian traditions to accommodate certain groups. We’re seeing calls for additional public holidays, school canteens adjusting menus without consultation, and even debates over our National Anthem being sung in different languages. Australia has always been an inclusive and fair country, but when does inclusion become surrendering the values that make us who we are?

This is not about stopping immigration—it’s about ensuring that those who come here embrace Australia, just as past generations of migrants have. Get a sponsor, have a job, pay your taxes, follow the laws, and most importantly, learn the language. That’s how immigrants of the past earned respect, and it should be no different today.

If we don’t stand up for the Australia we love, who will?

Long live Australia!