Long-range and precise missiles and mobile rocket systems are the first items in the government’s shopping cart after a major defence review.
The Albanese government is setting aside $4.1 billion for more missiles and to ensure longer-range munitions can be manufactured in Australia.
Under the package, $1.6 billion will be used to accelerate the delivery of mobile rocket systems known as HIMARS and precision strike missiles while $2.5 billion will be used for guided weapons and explosives.
Plans to manufacture guided weapons, artillery and sea mines in Australia will be handed to the government by the end of the year.
A major review into Australia’s Defence Force found the military wasn’t fit for purpose and recommended a focus on long-range strike power to hit enemies deeper into the Indo-Pacific.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said the review would help reshape the army to combat future threats.
“We are trying to re-imagine an army which is more mobile and can project,” he said.
-AAP
