In this episode, Grant McHerron and Ewen Levick talk with Michael Shoebridge, Founder and Director of Strategic Analysis Australia, about the government’s recently released response to the Surface Fleet Review and other topics.

We start off with Michael’s first impressions on the Surface Fleet Review, with concerns surrounding its lack of funding, outdated focus on going big, and delays in delivery. We get further insights into how Australian Defence’s sovereign risk has increased due to many contracts for major platforms not being honoured. The discussion also explores how the ‘small, smart, and many’ has outweighed the ‘large, strong, and few’, with examples drawn from the conflict from Ukraine. We also assess the challenges with American supplied missiles and the use of Large Optionally Crewed Surface Vessels (LOSVs, aka "missile trailers") to supplement those on the destroyers and frigates. 

Throughout this discussion, we also explore the complacency of Defence during non-war periods, the importance of diversity in the weapons portfolio, and how weapons choices can restrict frigate design. We wrap up by assessing how buying ready made ships could result in successful and prompt delivery. 

LINKS:

Plans revealed for Australia's future surface fleet:

www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/plans-revealed-for-australia-s-future-surface-fleet

Strategic Analysis Australia:

strategicanalysis.org/

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