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Australia’s Defence Minister, Richard Marles, highlighted the necessity of reshaping all three branches of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in response to the escalating threat posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region. Speaking at The Sydney Institute on April 4, Marles emphasized the imperative nature of tough decisions to realign the ADF strategy, as outlined in the 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR).

Marles acknowledged the challenges posed by a Defence budget shortfall of $42 billion, hindering the implementation of crucial projects. Despite projections indicating a rise in Defence spending, certain initiatives are slated for postponement or cancellation to maximize effectiveness in countering the evolving security landscape.

The DSR prioritises the establishment of long-range strike capabilities, bolstering air defence systems, and acquiring Virginia Class nuclear submarines from the United States, a key partner in the AUKUS alliance. Additionally, plans involve ramping up military production in Queensland and collaborating with U.S. Marines by sharing forward operating bases in the Northern Territory.

To facilitate these strategic imperatives, Marles underscored the inevitability of restructuring all branches of the ADF. This reallocation of resources aims to fund critical projects essential for deterring potential adversaries from hostile actions against Australia.

Marles lamented the inadequacy of the Defence budget, stressing that for every $100 earmarked for expenditure, the Defence sector was planning to spend $140, creating a significant shortfall. This financial disparity undermines the viability of numerous projects, leading to uncertainty regarding their fruition and potential losses incurred.

Describing the current situation as unsustainable, Marles emphasized the need to stem financial losses within the ADF. He warned that the prevailing fiscal challenges not only impact industry stakeholders but also erode morale within the Defence sector, impeding long-term planning efforts.

In conclusion, Marles stressed the imperative of making difficult decisions to ensure the ADF’s readiness to confront emerging security threats effectively. Despite fiscal constraints, Australia remains committed to bolstering its defence capabilities to safeguard its interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s decision to appoint Samantha Mostyn as Australia’s next Governor-General has sparked widespread dismay and criticism. Mostyn’s nomination, approved by King Charles, has left many Australians questioning the government’s judgment and priorities.

Mostyn, a businesswoman and gender equality advocate, will succeed David Hurley, who has served as Governor-General since 2019. Albanese’s announcement of Mostyn’s appointment was met with scepticism and disappointment among citizens.

The Prime Minister’s attempt to paint Mostyn as a beacon of modern Australia was met with cynicism, with many viewing her selection as a political move rather than a reflection of her qualifications. Critics argue that her background in business and advocacy does not adequately prepare her for the ceremonial and representational duties of the Governor-General.

Despite Albanese’s praise for Mostyn’s leadership qualities, many remain unconvinced, citing concerns about her lack of experience in public service and ceremonial roles. Some view her appointment as a token gesture toward gender equality, rather than a genuine effort to find the most qualified candidate for the position.

Moreover, the timing of Mostyn’s appointment has raised eyebrows, with Australia facing numerous challenges both domestically and internationally. Critics worry that her lack of experience in governance and diplomacy could undermine the effectiveness of the Governor-General’s office during these turbulent times.

While Mostyn expressed gratitude for the opportunity, her reassurances failed to quell the scepticism surrounding her appointment. Many Australians remain sceptical about her ability to effectively represent their interests and uphold the traditions of the office.

As the nation prepares for a new era under Mostyn’s tenure, the prevailing sentiment among many is one of disillusionment and concern about the direction of Australia’s highest office.

During Exercise Diamond Shield 24, the Australian Defence Force has commenced comprehensive air defence operations, executing both day and night missions. This live training initiative underscores the ADF’s commitment to enhancing its readiness and capabilities across various operational scenarios. By conducting exercises around the clock, ADF personnel are honing their skills in detecting, intercepting, and neutralizing potential threats to national security, ensuring heightened vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding Australian airspace. Through Exercise Diamond Shield 24, the ADF demonstrates its dedication to maintaining a robust defence posture, capable of responding effectively to evolving challenges and safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and interests.

Students were challenged with complex mission scenarios while flying F-35 Lightning II aircraft, with the assistance of KC-30A multi-role tankers and E-7A airborne early warning and control aircraft.

Group Captain Martin Parker, director of Exercise Diamond Shield 24, said the exercise involved dynamic scenarios to defend Australia from attack.

“Exercise Diamond Shield 24 is defensive in nature and we give the course participants really wicked problems,” GPCAPT Parker said.

“They come together to find the answers to these challenging scenarios and then they implement their solutions.

“It is effectively passing best practice from one generation to another whilst also giving them the environment to learn and thrive.”

Exercise Diamond Shield 24 forms part of the six-month-long Air Warfare Instructor Course (AWIC), which combines exercises with academic instruction and briefings on the ground.

The Australian federal government has introduced the 2024 Australian Defence Export Catalogue, replacing the former Australian Defence Sales Catalogue. Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy revealed this comprehensive collection of defence industry products and services from across Australia. This year’s catalogue features over 300 Australian defence industry businesses, indicating a 20% increase from the previous edition. It also lists surplus equipment from the Australian Defence Force, including ASLAV and Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles, available for export.

Minister Conroy emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting local defence industry businesses in accessing global markets, creating jobs, and integrating Australian innovation into global supply chains. The catalogue underscores the government’s dedication to promoting exports and showcasing Australian technology and capability worldwide. It includes a section on government support for defence industry companies through various agencies. Additionally, it invites interested foreign governments to explore surplus ADF equipment suitable for their needs by contacting the Australian Defence Export Office. Overall, the government aims to enhance defence industry opportunities, promote Australian exports, and integrate industry into the global supply chain to boost economic prosperity and job creation in Australia.

Iranian authorities restated their determination to retaliate against Israel on Wednesday, following an airstrike on Monday that resulted in the deaths of seven Iranian officials and the destruction of its consulate in Syria.

President Ebrahim Raisi, speaking on Iranian state television, asserted that the attack “will not go unanswered.” Meanwhile, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in televised remarks and social media posts, cautioned that Israel “will face consequences.”

The strike occurred amidst ongoing hostilities between Iran-backed Hezbollah and the Israeli Defence Forces along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. It sparked widespread concern due to its significant escalation and departure from international norms regarding embassy attacks.

The IDF announced plans to reinforce its aerial defence unit and mobilize additional reservists in response to escalating tensions with Iran.

On social media, Khamenei also called for international condemnation of Israel ahead of International Quds (Jerusalem) Day on Friday. Originating after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Quds Day is observed with protests in support of Palestinians worldwide.

Iran declared that the funerals of the two generals and five officials killed in the IDF strike in Damascus would coincide with Friday’s Quds Day protests in Tehran. Major General Hossein Salami, IRGC Commander, is scheduled to deliver remarks during the event.

GREAT ITALIAN SEX

The Jewish man said, “Last week, my wife and I had great sex. I rubbed her body all over with schmaltz (chicken fat), we made passionate love, and she screamed for five full minutes at the end!”

The Frenchman boasted, “Last week when my wife and I had sex, I rubbed her body all over with butter. We then made passionate love and she screamed for 10 minutes!”

The Italian man said, “Well, last week my wife and I also had sex. I rubbed her body all over with olive oil. We made love, and she screamed for over six hours!”

The other two were stunned. The amazed Frenchman asked, “What could you have possibly done to make your wife scream for six hours?”

The Italian said…………..”I wiped my hands on the bedspread.”

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The Squirrel Infestation

The Presbyterian church called a meeting to decide what to do about their squirrel infestation. After much prayer and consideration, they concluded that the squirrels were predestined to be there, and they should not interfere with God’s divine will.

At the Baptist church, the squirrels had taken an interest in the baptistry. The deacons met and decided to put a water-slide on the baptistry and let the squirrels drown themselves. The squirrels liked the slide and, unfortunately, knew instinctively how to swim, so twice as many squirrels showed up the following week.

The Lutheran church decided that they were not in a position to harm any of God’s creatures. So, they humanely trapped their squirrels and set them free near the Baptist church. Two weeks later, the squirrels were back when the Baptists took down the water-slide.

The Episcopalians tried a much more unique path by setting out pans of whiskey around their church in an effort to kill the squirrels with alcohol poisoning. They sadly learned how much damage a band of drunk squirrels can do.

But the Catholic church came up with a more creative strategy! They baptized all the squirrels and made them members of the church. Now they only see them at Christmas and Easter.

Not much was heard from the Jewish synagogue. They took the first squirrel and circumcised him. They haven’t seen a squirrel since.

As Anzac Day 2024 approaches, final arrangements are being made at commemorative sites in Australia and around the world, as we prepare to remember the contributions all service men and women have made for more than a century since the First World War. On Anzac Day, all Australians are encouraged to reflect on this, whether as part of a commemorative service overseas, or in Australia. 

The Australian War Memorial will once again host the national Dawn Service, which will be telecast live on ABC TV and streamed via DVA’s Facebook page.

Returned Services League of Australia (RSL) and other ex-service organisations, as well as state and territory governments, organise Anzac Day services throughout the country. You can find out about local services by getting in touch with your local RSL sub-branch or visiting the Anzac Day page on the RSL Australia website.

A number of Australian War Cemeteries and Gardens of Remembrance hold Anzac Day services. Please check the Commemorations page on the DVA website for up-to-date information.

If you are planning a commemorative service, or choosing to commemorate Anzac Day at home, the Department of Veterans’ Affair’s (DVA) digital kitbag of printable materials can help. The kitbag includes speeches, Orders of Service, commemorative music playlists, craft activities and more. To download these resources, visit the Anzac Portal. 

Services held in Gallipoli in Türkiye, and Villers-Bretonneux in France, hold special meaning for Australians. They’re where many of those who served in the First World War fought and died, and were integral in the forging of the Anzac traditions that are embraced and carried on today by the Australian Defence Force.

Anyone planning to attend either of these two services must register for a free attendance pass by visiting commemorations.teg.com.au. The international Dawn Services will also be broadcast live on the ABC on Anzac Day and streamed live on DVA’s Facebook page.

Every year, the Australian Government works with local authorities to also hold safe, solemn and dignified Anzac Day services at significant sites where Australians fought and died in the Second World War: the Bomana War Cemetery and Isurava Memorial in Papua New Guinea, Hellfire Pass in Thailand, and the Sandakan Memorial Park in Malaysia. Please consult the DVA website for important information about participating in these services.

More information about Anzac Day overseas services is available on the Anzac Day page of the DVA website. 

“Good Morning, Vietnam!” is a phrase immortalized by the iconic American radio broadcaster Adrian Cronauer. Cronauer’s vivacious and irreverent personality catapulted the phrase into popular culture, especially during his stint as a disc jockey for the Armed Forces Radio Service (AFRS) in Saigon during 1965-66.

Cronauer’s booming voice echoed through the airwaves, bringing a much-needed dose of humour, music, and unfiltered commentary to American and Australian troops stationed in Southeast Asia. His energetic and boundary-pushing style challenged the conventions of military radio, earning him both praise and reprimand from his superiors.

With a playlist that spanned from rock ‘n’ roll to soul, and a sharp wit that spared no one, Cronauer became a beloved figure among soldiers seeking respite from the harsh realities of war. His broadcasts served as a lifeline, connecting troops to home and fostering a sense of camaraderie amidst the chaos of combat.

However, Cronauer’s tenure in Vietnam was not without its controversies. His outspokenness and willingness to tackle sensitive topics, including the military bureaucracy and the politics of the war, sometimes landed him in hot water with military brass. Yet, his unwavering commitment to truth and entertainment endeared him to listeners far and wide.

“Good Morning, Vietnam!” became more than just a greeting; it became a symbol of hope and defiance in the face of adversity. Cronauer’s legacy as a pioneering radio personality continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of laughter and music to transcend even the darkest of times.

Submarines have long relied on stealth to maintain dominance in the depths of the ocean, presenting an enigmatic yet formidable presence. Now, the U.S. Navy is set to elevate stealth capabilities to unprecedented heights with the implementation of a revolutionary propulsion system. American submarines will soon be equipped with the cutting-edge magnetohydrodynamic drive.

In a groundbreaking development, the U.S. Navy has chosen to outfit a Virginia-class submarine with this state-of-the-art technology, marking a significant leap forward in undersea warfare. This innovative magnetohydrodynamic drive, part of the PUMP program spearheaded by DARPA (Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency), has been in the works since its announcement in 2023. By utilizing superconducting magnets to generate a magnetic field that accelerates water passing through, this propulsion system has earned the moniker “caterpillar drive” due to its resemblance to the smooth, stealthy motion of a caterpillar.

The selected vessel to receive this pioneering upgrade is the USS Montana (SSN 794), a formidable Virginia-class attack submarine commissioned into service in June 2022. Despite her relatively young age, the USS Montana has been brought to Groton, Connecticut, for the installation of this groundbreaking technology.

The implementation of the magnetohydrodynamic drive is poised to render the USS Montana virtually undetectable, a coveted achievement in naval warfare. Unlike traditional propulsion systems with moving mechanical parts, this new drive operates entirely within the submarine’s hull, minimizing acoustic signatures and making detection via passive sonar extremely challenging. Sonar operators scouring the depths for the USS Montana are likely to encounter noises that mimic natural phenomena, such as seismic activity, further enhancing the submarine’s stealth capabilities.

Externally, the only visible indicators of this advanced propulsion system are the water intake doors located in the bow of the submarine, resembling enlarged torpedo tube shutters. These discreet openings, approximately the size of a submarine-launched ballistic missile, are positioned horizontally, a departure from conventional configurations.

Pending successful trials, the magnetohydrodynamic drive may find its way into additional submarines, including future iterations of the Virginia class and the anticipated ‘SSN-X’ models. However, it is unlikely to be incorporated into the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBN), as the unparalleled stealth capabilities would be redundant for submarines primarily tasked with nuclear deterrence.

The USS Montana is scheduled to undergo sea trials in the Penobscot River, Maine, providing a secure environment away from prying eyes, notably those of the Russian Navy.

While the caterpillar drive propulsion system is still in its nascent stages, its deployment aboard the USS Montana signifies the dawn of a new era in undersea warfare. Whether the trials in the Penobscot River mark the conclusion of this chapter or herald the beginning of a transformative journey remains to be seen. Regardless, the USS Montana will remain an elusive force beneath the waves.

Gregor Ferguson talks us through the MQ-4C UAV in Australian service, as 9 Squadron is reformed to take on the UAV role in ISR missions.