The Future of the Australian Navy

[Michael H. Standart]

From Australian Aviation:

2013 delivery planned for first Australian Romeos

quote:

The first two of 24 Sikorsky-Lockheed Martin MH-60R naval helicopters being acquired for the Royal Australian Navy under Air 9000 Phase 8 could be delivered as early as December 2013, according to Lockheed Martin.

More at http://australianaviation.com.au/2011/10/2013-deli very-planned-for-first-australian-romeos/​

 

[Michael H. Standart]

Today's Feature Story From Reuters:

Australia seeks European designs on $36 bln submarine fleet

quote:

Dec 13 (Reuters) - Australia has asked three European companies to submit designs to replace its submarine fleet at a cost of up to A$36 billion ($36 billion) in a defence buildup aimed at protecting resource exports and countering an accelerating arms race in Asia.

More at http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/13/australia-submarines-idUSL3E7ND1W020111213

On the other hand, from The Australian:

Collins fleet damned as unfit, safety risk

quote:

A DEVASTATING new report into the nation's Collins-class submarine fleet has warned of profound safety risks arising from inexperienced crews, a paucity of experts, poor reliability and a dysfunctional maintenance system.

More at http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/defence/collins-fleet-damned-as-unfit-safety-risk/s tory-e6frg8yo-1226221305084

Comment: Canberra's going to have an "interesting time" selling this project to the nation when it's percieved that they can't even keep up the boats that they have.​