After the previous podcast many people might have been hoping for a description of the TKMS bid for SEA 3000. Sorry to disappoint but the rules imposed by Defence block that – and we have figured out who is to blame. It’s the probity lawyers – what a surprise.
The media visit to Germany focussed entirely on the parent yard build of the first three ships – and there is no doubt that TKMS and partner companies will be able to do that without working up a sweat. Then some personal thoughts on strategic partnerships.
Many people believe the relationship with Japan is so important that the Mogami should be automatically selected. But does it make sense to base partnerships on the purchase of equipment? Wouldn’t it be better for that to be the domain of treaties and security guarantees? And shouldn’t buying stuff work both ways if it’s so important? Also Ukraine is using drones to revolutionise warfare. We told you so.
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I couldn’t agree more that we might be backing the wrong technology. Manned “anything” might be problematic in the 2030s. One of the reasons I think we will be getting Virginia subs from the US is that it will be so bleeding obvious that they have been superceeded by UUVs that they will be desperate to unload them.
Correct.
It’s not about Defence, it’s about the appearance of Defence while buying off voters, keeping the unions happy and relying on “strategic partners”.
The reality has changed but the Department has yet to catch up, being at least a decade behind the times and glacially slow to change. Happy to laugh at the Russians while at Fleet base East you can view our ships while strolling with a pram. Dangerous times to have their head in the sand.
Must have been a difficult Podcast to put together, what with the gag order in place . Sea3000 has been quite a ride, initially I was all Meko then slowly warmed to the Mogami now I’m leaning back to the Meko. You are right that the Meko should be the obvious choice because of familiarity with the build and training but the Political aspect I think will see us selecting the Mogami ( if it hasn’t already) . I think a way of having our cake and eating too is, Select the Meko and offer to replace the Collins with the Taigei submarines. These can see us through until we eventually; (if ever) get an AUKUS boat or better still move to a XLUUV capability which is where the R.A.N. Should be heading .
According to Reuters the Trump administration will be reviewing the submarine pact with Australia and the UK. Good thing in my opinion. We need to settle this now. If there is any lingering doubts about this program we should settle it now so all sides can move on.
Extraordinary that the US Secretary of Defence was provided the results of the Richardson review of the Australian Submarine Agency when our own parliament hasn’t been.
Ed Husic would make a terrific Minister of Defence.
I wasn’t aware that the Richardson review had gone to Hegseth – but nothing would surprise me.