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Defence Minister to Reveal Program Cuts for Military Overhaul

Defence Minister Richard Marles is poised to announce reductions to various programs in a move to allocate resources to essential sectors as part of a restructuring of the Australian armed forces. Today, in an address to the National Press Club in Canberra, Mr. Marles will unveil a fresh national defence strategy. Last April, the government issued a defence strategic review, revealing that the Australian Defence Force was no longer adequately equipped for its intended purposes.

The upcoming recalibration is expected to prioritise the development of new missiles and drones. Opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie emphasized that for Marles to demonstrate effective leadership, the new plans must transcend mere rhetoric and vague promises. He stressed the necessity for tangible financial investment, genuine commitment, and decisive leadership.

Hastie underscored the importance of Marles providing transparent insights into the nation’s security challenges. He insisted that this transparency must be complemented by a substantial increase in defence spending and a well-defined strategy. Malcolm Davis, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, advocated for the swift implementation of an integrated air and missile defense system to safeguard critical infrastructure in Australia’s northern regions.

Davis cited the recent barrage of over 300 weapons, missiles, and drones launched by Iran against Israel, noting that the majority were successfully intercepted. He cautioned that without such a defence system in place, the outcome could have been vastly different.

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Escalating tensions between Manila and Beijing over the South China Sea dispute.

Following a recent summit alongside President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington, Marcos has provided insights into potential scenarios involving the US, a treaty ally of the Philippines, amid escalating tensions between Manila and Beijing over the South China Sea dispute.

The recent clash in March saw two Chinese coast guard ships unleash water cannons on a Philippine vessel, resulting in injuries to three Filipino navy personnel and significant damage to the boat. China asserts extensive territorial claims over the resource-rich South China Sea.

Biden’s recent reaffirmation of defence commitments to Asian allies reflects concerns regarding China’s increasingly assertive behaviours. Since assuming office in 2022, Marcos has actively defended the Philippines’ claims in the contested waters while strengthening security ties with the US and Japan.

Under the 2014 Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement, the US gained access to four additional Philippine sites last year, supplementing the initially designated five military bases. These new sites are strategically located near Taiwan and the South China Sea.

Marcos clarified on Monday that while the Philippines has no immediate plans to grant the US access to further bases, discussions are underway for a reciprocal access agreement with Japan, facilitating mutual military visits.

Moreover, Marcos aims to leverage the deepening defence relations with the US and its allies for broader economic advantages. One potential avenue being explored is oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea, where US companies may be invited to participate.

Despite an agreement between the Philippines and China to resume joint exploration talks in January last year, differences persist regarding the governing laws for such projects. Marcos emphasized the importance of determining the applicable law, asserting that exploration within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone should be conducted by the Philippines. Meanwhile, exploration in non-conflict areas remains a possibility for the Philippines.

 

 

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If this is fact, how can it continue at this rate?

Russian forces are continuing to suffer losses in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, with 830 soldiers, 47 armoured combat vehicles, and 22 tanks lost over the past 24 hours alone.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: The total combat losses of the Russian forces between 24 February 2022 and 10 April 2024 are estimated to be as follows [figures in parentheses represent the latest losses – ed.]:

  • 450,080 (+830) military personnel;
  • 7,132 (+22) tanks;
  • 13,667 (+47) armoured combat vehicles;
  • 11,404 (+18) artillery systems;
  • 1,040 (+1) multiple-launch rocket systems;
  • 753 (+0) air defence systems;
  • 347 (+0) fixed-wing aircraft;
  • 325 (+0) helicopters;
  • 9,070 (+37) strategic and tactical UAVs;
  • 2,067 (+2) cruise missiles;
  • 26 (+0) ships and boats;
  • 1 (+0) submarines;
  • 15,248 (+67) vehicles and tankers;
  • 1,876 (+8) special vehicles and other equipment.
  • The information is being confirmed.
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How Israel and allied defenses intercepted more than 300 Iranian missiles and drones

Almost all the ballistic missiles and drones Iran launched at Israel in an unprecedented attack late Saturday were intercepted and failed to meet their mark, according to Israeli and American officials, highlighting the formidable, and multi-layered missile defense deployed by the two allied partners.

Most of the more than 300 Iranian munitions, the majority of which are believed to have been launched from inside of Iran’s territory during a five-hour attack, were intercepted before they got to Israel, more than 1,100 miles (1,770 kilometers) from their launch points.

Israel’s military said Sunday that “99%” of projectiles fired by Iran were intercepted by Israel and its partners, with only “a small number” of ballistic missiles reaching Israel.

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How Israel and allied defenses intercepted more than 300 Iranian missiles and drones | CNN

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Survey Reveals Majority Oppose Further Migration

Nearly three quarters of Australians surveyed express opposition to increased immigration, citing concerns over the cost of living crisis, reveals a recent study conducted on 3000 participants. The findings shed light on the ongoing debate surrounding population growth and its impact on various facets of Australian life.

The survey highlights a prevailing sentiment among Australians that the country does not require additional migrants, with many attributing the cost of living crisis to mass immigration. As migration statistics indicate a steady increase in population, with a growth rate of 2.5 percent in the year leading up to September 30, 2023, concerns over issues such as traffic congestion, housing affordability, and strain on public services continue to escalate.

Permanent migrants, entering through the Migration Program for skilled and family migrants or the Humanitarian Program for refugees, contribute to this growth. Additionally, net overseas migration (NOM) accounts for a significant portion of population increase, with forecasts suggesting a continued influx, potentially reaching 893,000 over two years by June 2024.

The rapid population growth is fueled by various factors, including job security, immigration, natural population increase, and internal migration from rural areas to major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. While some argue that Australia’s challenges stem from urban planning, infrastructure investment, and resource management rather than sheer population size, a substantial portion of surveyed Australians maintain that the country is already “too full.”

Critics of the overpopulation narrative advocate for strategic planning and investment to accommodate a larger population without exacerbating current issues. However, the survey reflects widespread skepticism, with over 70 percent of respondents expressing concerns over the perceived strain on resources and infrastructure.

In contrast, a minority—14 percent—favour maintaining high migration levels, while 13 percent remain undecided. Notably, the survey also delves into voter sentiments regarding the government’s “progressive agenda,” implemented since the Albanese administration assumed office in 2022.

Furthermore, the study explores the impact of increased financial insecurity and housing stress on voter behavior, particularly among young people. A significant proportion of non-homeowners, primarily young voters, express difficulty in achieving financial stability, with many gravitating towards parties like Labor and the Greens.

The survey underscores the complex interplay between immigration policies, socioeconomic factors, and political preferences, shaping the ongoing discourse on Australia’s population trajectory and its implications for the future.

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Major task ahead of Vice Admiral David Johnston

Vice Admiral David Johnston begins his term as Australia’s Defence Force chief amidst significant challenges. The federal government has entrusted him with the task of addressing plummeting morale and stagnant recruitment, set against the backdrop of unprecedented strategic uncertainty. Despite his anticipated short tenure, Johnston’s reputation as an industrious leader suggests he will implement much-needed reforms during his time in office.

With experience as Joint Operations chief and Defence Force vice chief, Johnston is well-equipped to tackle the multifaceted issues ahead. His appointment as the first naval leader to head the Defence Force in two decades reflects the recognition that contemporary challenges largely revolve around Australia’s maritime capabilities.

Key challenges include the pressing workforce crisis characterized by recruitment shortfalls and low morale. The Defence Force aims to increase its personnel by 30% by 2040, but current numbers fall short, necessitating concerted efforts to attract and retain talent.

Improving morale involves addressing cultural issues within the Defence Force and the department, a task Defence Minister Richard Marles has committed to tackling. Johnston emphasizes the importance of creating a respectful and supportive environment for personnel.

Budgetary considerations are crucial to bolstering morale, as insufficient support and unrealistic expectations contribute to dissatisfaction. Marles proposes cuts and restructuring to align resources with actual needs, aiming to instil confidence in the workforce.

Johnston’s tenure coincides with the release of a report on internal cultural issues, including veteran suicides, underscoring the imperative for reform and improved support mechanisms. The Defence Force’s participation in the Royal Commission reflects a commitment to enhancing its culture.

The Prime Minister highlighted the need for effective leadership in navigating a complex global strategic environment, particularly in responding to regional tensions. Johnston’s appointment signifies a shift in focus from the war on terror to new challenges, requiring adaptive leadership and strategic vision.

 

 

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