The Opposition would fast-track plans to buy new Offshore Combatant Vessels (OCV) - a multi-purpose warship displacing up to 2000 tonnes and capable of long-endurance border protection tasks.
However, some are a little confused. They would consider a defective U.S. requirement built in part by an Australian effort:
Senator Johnston said he was particularly impressed with the US Navy's Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), a cutting edge trimaran designed by WA-shipbuilder Austal.
Maybe someday we will actually get some politicians that study warfare instead of rent-seeking.
4 comments:
He also raves over the F35 after going on a trip to LM earlier this year.
Why doesn't the opposition just consider the Austal JHSV as it's 'OCV' concept? Perhaps just arm with 3-4x 30mm remote weapon systems and some .50 cal?
It would cost about 25% of the LCS? The helo deck and hangar space is there. And they could supplement surveillance with small UAV.
Could likely out-run an Austal LCS and would likely out-range it too.
In responding to humanitarian relief, it would have far superior internal space and capacity to deliver equipment or evacuate/hold persons for short periods.
Back in the Whitlam era, Senator Jo Vallentine made a statement in the parliament something like: 'If we civilianise the military as much as possible, ultimately there will not be any need for an offensive capability.'
That sort of thinking perhaps underlies the Gillard Government and the maybe the Abbott Opposition much over-emphasizing how platforms being acquired are usable for aid to civil powers.
Once again, the Opposition has illustrated how they cannot let go of the Johnny Howard inspired strategy primarily supporting defence industry in lieu of maintaining continual and adequate military preparedness.
A once proud 'Profession of Arms' in Australia is becoming more like a 'Peace Corps'.
Anonymous; I agree with your thought re the Austal JHSV. I meant the Federal Opposition's bent toward support of 'foreign-parented' defence industry in lieu of military preparedness.
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