2021 Australia Special Weapons News

South Korean Presidential Hopeful Seeks US Support to Build Nuclear Subs in Wake of AUKUS Tensions Sputnik 30 Dec 2021 -- In mid-September, the US, the UK, and Australia declared the formation of the AUKUS bloc as a platform for defence and security cooperation.
Australia reports first Omicron death as daily COVID-19 cases surge Press TV 27 Dec 2021 -- Australia has reported its first confirmed death from the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in the country's most populous state amid a surge in new infections.
Australia Records Major Spike in Omicron Variant of COVID-19 VOA 23 Dec 2021 -- Australia on Thursday reported a major spike in coronavirus infections driven by the omicron variant, prompting the worst-hit state of New South Wales to reimpose mandatory indoor mask-wearing.
Australia Considers Charging Unvaccinated Residents for COVID-19 Hospital Care VOA 23 Dec 2021 -- A suggestion by Australia's most populous state to charge unvaccinated people for COVID-19 medical costs has received widespread criticism. The New South Wales proposal has angered doctors and some federal politicians, who argue that health care in Australia is free and universal.
Australia Outlines New Measures to Avoid Lockdowns Amid Spread of Omicron Variant Sputnik 22 Dec 2021 -- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Wednesday outlined the new measures to avoid new lockdowns while containing the spread of Omicron variant, including mask-wearing, pay raise to vaccination staff, relaunching additional vaccination hubs and setting the interval in the booster administration programme.
Australia Relaxes COVID-19 Restrictions as Case Numbers Soar VOA 20 Dec 2021 -- Australia's most populous state is being urged to reintroduce COVID-19 restrictions after seeing a record number of new infections.
Australia - Hellfire AGM-114R2 Missiles DSCA 20 Dec 2021 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of Hellfire AGM-114R2 Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $108 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Dependable supply ship farewelled Australia DOD 20 Dec 2021 -- HMAS Sirius was decommissioned from the Royal Australian Navy on December 18 after more than 15 years' dedicated service providing fuel and stores to ships at sea.
Australian state pushes booster shots, not restrictions amid surging COVID-19 cases People's Daily 19 Dec 2021 -- As daily COVID-19 case numbers in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) continue to surge, authorities have pushed booster shots as the way forward instead of restrictions.
Australian states ease quarantine rules despite increasing COVID-19 infections People's Daily 18 Dec 2021 -- Australia's states of New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria, the two major entry ports of the country, further eased quarantine rules for international travelers despite the increasing infections of COVID-19.
First Arafura-class patrol boat launched Australia DOD 17 Dec 2021 -- The first of 12 Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels - NUSHIP Arafura - was launched yesterday at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia.
Readout of AUKUS Joint Steering Group Meetings The White House 17 Dec 2021
Queensland State Border Reopens After Months of COVID-19 Restrictions VOA 13 Dec 2021 -- Queensland Monday opened its state borders to Australia's COVID-19 hot spots. Stranded residents and tourists from Australia's two most populous states -- New South Wales and Victoria -- are being allowed to enter after being locked out of Queensland for more than five months.
$1 billion defence contract, sovereign defence manufacturing facility in Geelong announced Australia PM 13 Dec 2021 -- The Morrison Government has announced a $1 billion defence contract for new Self-Propelled Howitzers for the Australian Army has been awarded to Hanwha Defense Australia. The contract signing was witnessed by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and President Moon Jae-in of the Republic of Korea today.
Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne US Dept. of State 11 Dec 2021
Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne Before Their Meeting US Dept. of State 11 Dec 2021
Strengthening Army's helicopter capability Australia DoD 10 Dec 2021 -- The Morrison Government has taken steps to strengthen the Australian Army's helicopter capability by formally requesting advice from the United States Government on the acquisition of up to 40 UH-60 Black Hawk to potentially replace the MRH90 Taipan helicopter.
Australia to Replace European Military Helicopters With US Black Hawks Sputnik 10 Dec 2021 -- Australia will replace European MRH-90 Taipan military helicopters with multi-role American Black Hawks, Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton said on Friday.
Combined Space Operations Initiative principals board meeting Australia DOD 09 Dec 2021 -- On 8-9 December 2021 (AEDT), the Combined Space Operations (CSpO) Initiative Principals Board - comprising representatives from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States - met in Cape Canaveral, Florida, to discuss cooperation on space security.
5 Western Nations Join Together in Diplomatic Boycott of China's Winter Olympics VOA 09 Dec 2021 -- A small but influential group of Western nations has announced diplomatic boycotts of the upcoming Beijing Winter Olympics, citing its record of human rights abuses.
China Condemns Australia's Boycott of Winter Olympics VOA 09 Dec 2021 -- China has condemned Australia's diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics as "political posturing." China's treatment of its Uyghur minority spurred Australia's decision, which followed a similar U.S. move.
China warns US, allies will 'pay price' for Olympics boycott; France rebuffs US campaign Press TV 09 Dec 2021 -- The Chinese foreign ministry has warned that the United States and its allies will "pay the price" for their diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Canada, UK announce political boycott of China Winter Olympics, imitating US Press TV 09 Dec 2021 -- Canada and Britain have announced a political boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, following similar decisions by the United States and Australia over alleged human rights violations in China.
Experts: Diplomatic Boycott of Beijing Games Needs More Nations for Impact VOA 09 Dec 2021 -- Experts say that for the U.S. diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics to be effective, more countries will need to participate. But that could be challenging given some countries' economic ties to China or recognized prowess in winter sports.
'Nobody cares,' Chinese FM blasts Canberra's decision to join US in boycotting Beijing 2022 Global Times 08 Dec 2021 -- Canberra staged a new political show by joining the US in a "boycott" of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, which fully exposes that it blindly follows the US, does not know right from wrong and has no bottom line, said the Chinese Foreign Ministry, noting China has not invited any Australian government officials to the Games and no one cares whether they come or not.
UK, Canada join US, Australia in Beijing Winter Olympics boycott Radio Free Asia 08 Dec 2021 -- Australia and Canada on Wednesday said they would join a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Games in Beijing in February, citing the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)'s human rights record, in a move that followed a similar announcement from Washington earlier in the week.
Britain, Canada Latest Nations to Announce Diplomatic Boycott of China Olympics VOA 08 Dec 2021 -- Following Britain's announcement that it will join the United States, Australia and others in a diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympic Games in February, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Wednesday that Canada will join the boycott.
Australia Announces Diplomatic Boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics VOA 08 Dec 2021 -- Australia will stage a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, mirroring a similar move by the United States.
Australia joins diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics Press TV 08 Dec 2021 -- Australia says it is planning to join the United States in a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in China, a move that risks further deteriorating the already strained relationship between Canberra and Beijing.
Sea legs of infantry fighting vehicles tested Australia DOD 07 Dec 2021 -- The two vehicles under consideration for Australia's multi-billion dollar infantry fighting vehicle project have undergone sea transportability trials on Sydney Harbour.
Joint Statement on Detentions in Ethiopia US Dept. of State 06 Dec 2021 -- The following is the text of a joint statement signed by the governments of Australia, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Paradise patrols strengthen partnership Australia DOD 06 Dec 2021 -- Patrol boats from the Royal Australian Navy and Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) maritime element worked together to conduct maritime surveillance and constabulary operations on Exercise Paradise.
Joint Statement on Reports of Summary Killings and Enforced Disappearances in Afghanistan US Dept. of State 04 Dec 2021 -- The text of the following statement was released initially by the Governments of the United States of America, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, the European Union, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine.
New Army Aviation Command established Australia DOD 02 Dec 2021 -- The Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Rick Burr, AO, DSC, MVO, today announced the establishment of a new Army Aviation Command, at a ceremonial parade and helicopter flyover at Blamey Square, Canberra.
On the Australian Sanctions Regime US Dept. of State 02 Dec 2021 -- The United States commends Australia on passing legislation that strengthens its sanctions regime to address more comprehensively human rights abuses, corruption, malicious cyber activity, violations of international humanitarian law, and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) proliferation globally - all of which threaten international peace and security.
A Message to the Congress on the Agreement between the Government of the United States of America, the Government of Australia, and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland The White House 01 Dec 2021
Maritime Forces from Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and the U.S. Conclude ANNUALEX 2021 US Navy 01 Dec 2021 -- Naval forces from Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and the U.S. concluded a nine-day multilateral, multinational annual exercise in the Philippine Sea, Nov. 30, 2021.
Australian Navy completes exercise with Canada, Germany, Japan and US Australia DOD 01 Dec 2021 -- Two Royal Australian Navy (RAN) vessels have finished nine days of maritime warfare training with four nations during ANNUALEX 2021.
US to Upgrade Military Infrastructure, Develop New Bases in Australia, Guam to Counter China Sputnik 30 Nov 2021 -- In February, US President Joe Biden asked Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin "to conduct a global posture review to ensure the footprint of American service members worldwide is correctly sized and supports strategy". The Pentagon says that the review will help it "best allocate military forces in pursuit of our national interests".
US global posture review targets China; exposes weakness in 1st island chain Global Times 30 Nov 2021 -- US President Joe Biden recently accepted recommendations from the Pentagon in a global posture review to prioritize the Indo-Pacific region, with a particular focus on China, through military infrastructure buildups in Guam, Australia and the Pacific Islands, US media reported on Tuesday.
Experts Say China's Stance in Indo-Pacific Added Realism to 5-Nation Naval Drill VOA 30 Nov 2021 -- Naval forces from the U.S., Australia, Canada, Germany and Japan have concluded a 10-day military drill in the Philippine Sea off the southern coast of Japan, with analysts saying the threat posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region has increased the importance of the military exercises.
China urges US, UK, Australia to correct wrong decision over nuclear submarine deal Global Times 30 Nov 2021 -- The US, the UK and Australia have drawn lines based on ideology and created a new military bloc with their nuclear submarine cooperation, increasing the risk of military conflict and geopolitical tension, showing a typical "Cold War" mentality, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a press briefing on Monday, when commenting on a new agenda meeting held by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on November 26.
Farewell to a 'Classic' era for air combat capability Australia DOD 29 Nov 2021 -- After more than 30 years of dedicated service to the Royal Australian Air Force, Australia's fleet of F/A-18A/B Classic Hornets has been farewelled, to make way for the fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighter.
Hornets farewelled after more than 35 years of service Australia DOD 29 Nov 2021 -- Air Force has farewelled the F/A-18A/B Hornets after more than 35 years of service, with an end of era event at RAAF Base Williamtown on November 29.
Griffin Eagle tests key aviation capabilities Australia DOD 29 Nov 2021 -- The 1st Aviation Regiment has spread it wings over the Arizona desert, having deployed a squadron of Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) Tigers to California, USA, in August and September to work alongside their US Marine Corps (USMC) counterparts.
Exercise planning for disaster relief Australia DOD 29 Nov 2021 -- Australian and Indonesian Forces have conducted a virtual joint combined command post exercise focused on the planning and execution of combined military humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.
New Cases of Omicron Variant Recorded in Netherlands, Australia VOA 28 Nov 2021 -- Dutch health officials said Sunday 13 people who recently arrived in the Netherlands on flights from South Africa have tested positive for the new omicron variant of the coronavirus.
Australia Reimposes COVID-19 Border Restrictions Amid Omicron Variant Fears VOA 28 Nov 2021 -- Australia has brought in travel bans and new quarantine orders because of concerns about the new omicron COVID-19 variant first reported in southern Africa. Two cases have been discovered in travelers arriving in Australia.
Joint Statement on Increasing Violence in Myanmar US Dept. of State 26 Nov 2021 -- The following is the text of a joint statement signed by the governments of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and the U.S. join for ANNUALEX 2021 US Navy 21 Nov 2021 -- Naval forces from Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and the U.S. unite to conduct multilateral, multinational exercise ANNUALEX in the Philippine Sea, Nov. 21-30.
Memorandum on the Presidential Determination on the Proposed Agreement between the Government of the United States of America, the Government of Australia, and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the Exchange of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information The White House 19 Nov 2021
China blasts Australian 'saber wielding' with nuclear submarine deal Press TV 19 Nov 2021 -- A top Chinese diplomat says Australia has become a "saber wielder" rather than a defender of peace as a result of a recent trilateral deal that would allow Canberra to acquire at least eight nuclear-powered submarines with US and British technology.
Iran-Backed Cybergroup Accused Of Targeting Critical U.S. Sectors RFE/RL 18 Nov 2021 -- U.S., British, and Australian authorities say a hacker group "associated" with the Iranian government is behind cyberattacks on targets in the United States and Australia, including in the health-care and transportation sectors.
Partnership endures as PNG military exchange concludes in Townsville Australia DOD 17 Nov 2021 -- Troops from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have successfully concluded Exercise Kumul Exchange at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville.
Joint Statement on 10-Year Anniversary for the Australia-United States Force Posture Initiatives DoD 16 Nov 2021 -- Today marks another milestone for the "Unbreakable Alliance" with the ten-year anniversary of the Australia - United States Force Posture Initiatives.
Chinese Demand for Coal Surges, But Australia Remains Frozen Out VOA 15 Nov 2021 -- China's output of coal increased to its highest level since at least March 2015 after authorities gave permission for mine expansions to boost supply and ease record prices. Chinese coal imports from Russia surged in September, but one of its traditional suppliers - Australia - remains frozen out of the lucrative trade because of diplomatic tensions.
Sydney farewells HMAS Sirius Australia DOD 15 Nov 2021 -- The Royal Australian Navy's last Auxiliary Oiler supply ship, HMAS Sirius has been farewelled by Navy's east-coast based Fleet and dignitaries ahead of its decommissioning in Western Australia in December.
Navy welcomes Stalwart into the fleet Australia DOD 14 Nov 2021 -- The Royal Australian Navy commissioned its latest ship into service on November 13 at Fleet Base West, Rockingham, Western Australia.
Geraldton named as Stalwart's ceremonial home port Australia DOD 14 Nov 2021 -- The City of Greater Geraldton has been announced as the ceremonial home port of Navy's newest ship, HMAS Stalwart.
HMAS Canberra returns home Australia DOD 13 Nov 2021 -- Almost 450 men and women who embarked on HMAS Canberra earlier this year have returned to Fleet Base East, Sydney today following a near five month deployment.
Australia-Japan bilateral exercise sharpens skills Australia DOD 13 Nov 2021 -- Ships and aircraft from the Royal Australian Navy and Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) participated in Exercise NICHI GOU TRIDENT off the coast of Japan from 10-12 November 2021.
HMAS Anzac strengthens partnership with Indonesia Australia DOD 12 Nov 2021 -- S Anzac trained with two Indonesian Navy ships this month during Exercise New Horizon, a key biennial maritime high-end warfare engagement.
Patrol boat office moves to Cairns Australia DOD 11 Nov 2021 -- The Department of Defence's Pacific Patrol Boat Systems Program Office (PPB SPO) has relocated to Cairns from Canberra so it can better support the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP).
US Lancers pierce Top End skies Australia DOD 10 Nov 2021 -- A pair of United States Air Force (USAF) B-1B Lancer bombers flew over Darwin on November 8.
Navy completes successful submarine search and rescue exercise Australia DOD 10 Nov 2021 -- The Royal Australian Navy has successfully completed its annual submarine search and rescue exercise off the coast of Western Australia, along with international participants from Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam.
United States Air Force B-1B Lancers in Top End exercise Australia DOD 09 Nov 2021 -- Two United States Air Force (USAF) B-1B Lancer bombers have swept over the Top End for training with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
Australian state of New South Wales transitions to booster phase of vaccine rollout People's Daily 07 Nov 2021 -- As Australia's New South Wales (NSW) state has begun to see a tapering of its vaccination rates, authorities announced on Sunday that the state would transition to the booster program phase of its vaccination rollout.
Australia's Loyal Wingman surges ahead Australia DOD 04 Nov 2021 -- The world-class development of Australia's Boeing Loyal Wingman program recently achieved several major milestones, with two aircraft successfully completing flight missions at the Woomera Range Complex, South Australia.
Loyal Wingman project achieves milestones Australia DOD 04 Nov 2021 -- The landing gear of a Loyal Wingman unmanned aircraft has been raised and engaged for the first time during a flight mission at Woomera in South Australia.
Chinese FM urges Australia to correct irresponsible moves, fulfill its nuclear non-proliferation obligations Global Times 04 Nov 2021 -- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Thursday commented on Australia's signing of the AUKUS deal with the US and the UK, saying it is an "extremely irresponsible" move that create risks and undermine regional peace and stability, urging Australia to abandon the Cold War mentality and fulfill its international nuclear non-proliferation obligations.
Telstra continues delivery of Defence critical network and telecommunication services Australia DOD 03 Nov 2021 -- The Department of Defence has signed a contract with Telstra to continue the delivery of critical network and telecommunications services in support of Defence operations.
France-Australia row deepens as Macron's text leaked to Australian media Press TV 03 Nov 2021 -- France has denounced Australia's "very inelegant" move to leak a private text message from President Emmanuel Macron to the Australian premier about a submarine deal that Canberra later unilaterally dropped, deeply dismaying Paris and sparking a diplomatic row.
Secretary Blinken's Call with Australian Foreign Minister Payne US Dept. of State 03 Nov 2021
Australia Rejects French Claims of AUKUS Deal Deception VOA 02 Nov 2021 -- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison rejected accusations French President Emmanuel Macron made about a scrapped $37 billion submarine deal. Macron has recently said Morrison lied when abandoning the submarine deal before Australia joined a new security pact with the United Kingdom and the United States known by its acronym AUKUS.
Press Conference - Glasgow, Scotland Prime Minister of Australia 01 Nov 2021
Australia COVID-19 Restrictions End, International Travel Resumes VOA 01 Nov 2021 -- Australians are being allowed to travel overseas without COVID-19 restrictions for the first time in almost 600 days. Previously they needed government permission to go overseas under strict measures designed to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
'I Don't Think. I Know': Macron accuses Australia PM of lying over submarine deal Press TV 01 Nov 2021 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has accused the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison of out-rightly lying to him over a cancelled $90bn submarine deal, marking fresh escalation of tensions between the two countries.
Chinese, Indonesia FMs voice serious concerns over AUKUS nuclear submarine deal People's Daily 30 Oct 2021 -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Indonesia counterpart Retno Marsudi met here Friday, vowing to enhance bilateral ties and voicing serious concerns over the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal.
Biden Acknowledges AUKUS Deal Rollout Was 'Clumsy' VOA 29 Oct 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden launched his whirlwind European diplomatic tour on a conciliatory note, saying Friday that the rollout of a security deal between the United States, Britain and Australia that cut out longtime ally France was "clumsy."
New era in fleet maintenance Australia DOD 29 Oct 2021 -- A call for tenders has been issued for a capability life-cycle manager (CLCM) to maintain Navy's Hobart-class destroyers.
Australia: France's display of anger in submarine row partially related to domestic politics Press TV 29 Oct 2021 -- Australia's defense minister says French President Emmanuel Macron is playing to domestic political sensibilities by expressing sustained outrage in a recent submarine row with Canberra.
Army aviation capability bolstered Australia DOD 28 Oct 2021 -- Army's aviation capability has been enhanced with two Leonardo AW139 helicopters joining the 5th Aviation Regiment in Townsville.
Fisheries patrol strengthens relationship Australia DOD 28 Oct 2021 -- HMAS Ararat recently completed Ausindo Corpat 2021, a five-day coordinated patrol with Indonesian Navy vessels KRI Sura and Kerapu along the shared maritime border.
ASEAN, Australia elevate strategic ties amid South China Sea tensions Radio Free Asia 27 Oct 2021 -- Indo-Pacific players Australia and ASEAN agreed to upgrade their ties to a "comprehensive strategic partnership," the regional bloc's chair said Wednesday, announcing the type of enhanced relationship with the grouping that China has been coveting since last year.
Coral Warrior gets underway in Fiji Australia DOD 27 Oct 2021 -- Despite numerous delays caused by the global pandemic and last year's destructive cyclone season, Coral Warrior 21 officially commenced on October 19 at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in the Fijian capital Suva.
Drone fleet passes audit with flying colours Australia DOD 26 Oct 2021 -- The Defence Aviation Safety Authority (DASA) recently audited Army's unmanned aerial systems (UAS), or drones, and the fleet passed with flying colours.
Mine hunters put to the test Australia DOD 25 Oct 2021 -- The Port of Fremantle and its Indian Ocean accesses have been blocked by an adversary's offensive mining tactics. This is the scenario Exercise Dugong 2021 participants face over the coming weeks.
Australia and Indonesia conduct combined maritime patrol Australia DOD 24 Oct 2021 -- The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) have completed a coordinated maritime patrol to enhance security along our shared maritime border as part of AUSINDO CORPAT 2021.
'Think twice' about AUKUS, China's foreign minister tells UK Press TV 23 Oct 2021 -- China's foreign minister has urged Britain to "think twice" about its trilateral military pact with the United States and Australia, which will allow Canberra to acquire nuclear-powered submarines.
AUKUS, China Sea Tensions Put Indonesia in Tight Spot, Analysts Say VOA 23 Oct 2021 -- Heightened Sino-Australian tensions over the new AUKUS agreement calling for the sharing of U.S. nuclear submarine technology with Australia, along with China's naval expansionism in the South China Sea, have left Indonesia with a delicate balancing act, analysts say.
New Patrol Boat handed over to PNG to enhance Pacific Security Australia DOD 22 Oct 2021 -- Papua New Guinea has received the third of four Guardian-class Patrol Boats delivered through the Pacific Maritime Security Program; at a handover ceremony in Henderson, Western Australia.
Marathon COVID-19 Lockdown Ends in Melbourne, Australia VOA 21 Oct 2021 -- A COVID-19 lockdown in the Australian city of Melbourne - officially the world's most locked down city - will end Thursday. Restrictions on leaving home will be lifted and a nighttime curfew will be scrapped because the state of Victoria has met its double dose vaccination target of 70%.
US Marines depart Australia's top end Australia DOD 20 Oct 2021 -- The 2021 Marine Rotational Force-Darwin (MRF-D) has departed from the Northern Territory, bringing to a close the tenth rotation of U.S. Marines through Australia's Top End.
Maritime partnerships strengthened Australia DOD 20 Oct 2021 -- The Royal Australian Navy this month joined key partners Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom for the Maritime Partnership Exercise in the Indian Ocean.
New patrol boat launched Australia DOD 19 Oct 2021 -- The first of six Evolved Cape-class patrol boats was recently launched at the Austal Ships shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia.
Warships from Australia, Japan, U.K., and U.S. Join Forces in Maritime Partnership Exercise 2021 US Navy 18 Oct 2021 -- Naval forces from Australia, Japan, the U.K., and the U.S. joined together in multilateral Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) 2021 to conduct naval training in the eastern Indian Ocean, Oct. 15-18.
Indonesia and Malaysia jointly amplify warning about AUKUS pact Radio Free Asia 18 Oct 2021 -- The top diplomats of Indonesia and Malaysia together amplified their nations' concerns Monday about Australia's plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, warning this could draw other powers into disputes over the South China Sea and provoke a regional arms race.
Major Cities in Australia, New Zealand Facing Different COVID-19 Lockdown Scenarios VOA 18 Oct 2021 -- Children in Australia's largest city returned to in-person learning Monday as Sydney reached an important milestone in its fight against COVID-19.
Exercise a first for Poseidon Australia DOD 18 Oct 2021 -- In the spirit of strengthening partnerships, the RAAF last month participated with elements from the Indonesian Air Force in the annual bilateral maritime patrol training, Exercise Albatross Ausindo 21.
MH-60R FLYING RESTRICTIONS LIFTED Australia DOD 16 Oct 2021 -- The Royal Australian Navy has lifted temporary restrictions on MH-60R flying operations.
Exercise enables stronger connections Australia DOD 15 Oct 2021 -- Indonesian Armed Forces personnel have been welcomed to the Top End for the eighth iteration of Exercise Wirra Jaya.
Nuclear-powered submarines welcomed Australia DOD 15 Oct 2021 -- Former Royal Navy (RN) nuclear submarine executive officer, Captain Henry Finnis (retd), sees the benefits of Australia acquiring the vessels as he reflects on his career as a submariner.
Exercise Malabar wraps up Australia DOD 15 Oct 2021 -- Australia and key partners India, Japan and the United States have completed the second phase of Exercise Malabar 2021, held in the Indian Ocean.
Canberra May Reportedly Use Ageing Fleet Until 2050 as New Submarines Delivery Date Not Fixed Sputnik 15 Oct 2021 -- Australia does not exclude keeping some of the ageing homegrown Collins-class submarines in service until 2050, as the exact schedule for obtaining new nuclear-propelled submarines is yet to be fixed, The Guardian reported on Friday.
Three aircrew safe after helicopter ditched in the Philippine Sea Australia DOD 14 Oct 2021 -- Three crewmembers of a Royal Australian Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopter are safe after ditching their helicopter in the Philippine Sea during a routine flight overnight.
Moscow: Nuland Informed AUKUS Threatens to Undermine Security Architecture in Asia-Pacific Sputnik 14 Oct 2021 -- US Under Secretary of State Victoria Nuland was informed that the AUKUS alliance treaty threatens to undermine security architecture in Asia-Pacific, the Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, said on Thursday.
Chinese ambassador slams AUKUS pact as "textbook case" of nuclear proliferation People's Daily 14 Oct 2021 -- The AUKUS pact among the United States, Britain and Australia, which will enable Australia to build nuclear-powered submarines with technology provided by the United States and Britain, is a "textbook case" of nuclear proliferation based on the Cold War mentality and narrow-minded geopolitical calculation, a Chinese diplomat said Wednesday.
Ambassador Li Song remarks on nuclear submarine cooperation of AUKUS PLA Daily 14 Oct 2021 -- The Permanent Mission of the People's Republic of China to the United Nations Office at Geneva and other International Organizations in Switzerland hosted a press conference via video link on October 13.
Australia, India, Japan, and U.S. Kick-off Phase II: MALABAR 2021 US Navy 13 Oct 2021 -- Maritime forces from Australia, India, Japan, and the United States began Phase II of Exercise MALABAR 2021 in the Bay of Bengal, Oct. 11.
ASEAN members bicker over AUKUS Global Times 14 Oct 2021 -- The new tripartite defense alliance AUKUS, formed with the intention of intimidating China, will strain ASEAN's unity and integration as regional countries are divided over the pact, experts said Wednesday, noting that if it sparks an arms race, it threatens to destabilize the region.
106-Day COVID-19 Lockdown Ends in Australia's Biggest City VOA 11 Oct 2021 -- The marathon COVID-19 lockdown in Australia's biggest city, Sydney, ended Monday for vaccinated residents. Stay-at-home orders imposed on June 26 have been lifted.
China urges Australia to drop 'Cold War mentality' after ex-PM Abbott visited Taipei, pledged support Press TV 11 Oct 2021 -- China has called on Australia to abandon its "Cold War mentality" and re-evaluate its relationship with Beijing, following former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott's visit to Chinese Taipei, during which he pledged that Canberra would support the self-ruled island against Beijing.
China lodges solemn representations to Australia over Abbott's 'immoral, ridiculous' comments on Taiwan Global Times 11 Oct 2021 -- China lodged solemn representations to Australia over recent "immoral, irresponsible and ridiculous" speeches made by former Australian prime minister Tony Abbott on Taiwan-related affairs, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said on Monday, stressing that the one-China principle is a universally recognized norm governing international relations and the consensus of the international community.
US approves sale of 12 attack helicopters to Australia amid AUKUS row Press TV 10 Oct 2021 -- The United States has approved the sale of a dozen attack helicopters and an electronic warfare plane to Australia, as part of a deal worth around $1.3 billion.
MULTILATERAL MARITIME EXERCISE MALABAR 2021 – PHASE II IN BAY OF BENGAL 12 – 15 OCT 21 India PIB 10 Oct 2021 -- The Indian Navy (IN) would be participating in the Second Phase of Multilateral Maritime Exercise Malabar along with the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the United States Navy (USN).
Australia - MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopters and Related Defense Services DSCA 08 Oct 2021 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopters, Related Defense Services, and related equipment for an estimated cost of $985 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Building relationships at sea and virtually Australia DOD 07 Oct 2021 -- Australia and Brunei have continued to develop their defence and whole-of-government relationship with a number of activities held at sea and virtually as part of Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2021 (IPE21).
New refuelling system fuels efficiencies Australia DOD 07 Oct 2021 -- An Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft from No. 92 Wing at RAAF Base Edinburgh in August marked a significant capability milestone, with the first refuelling using the base's in-ground system.
Landing a first on Lord Howe Island Australia DOD 06 Oct 2021 -- Scenic views and friendly locals are not the only things that make Lord Howe Island special.
Electric pushies finding role on battlefield Australia DOD 06 Oct 2021 -- The subtle buzz of a battery-powered motor is all you will hear from the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment's (Queensland Mounted Infantry) (2/14LHR [QMI]) trial stealth reconnaissance e-bikes.
FIVE POWERS ON DISPLAY Australia DOD 06 Oct 2021 -- Australia's commitment to regional security is on display during the Golden Jubilee (50th anniversary) of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA).
Australia Urged to Boost Military Cooperation with Taiwan VOA 06 Oct 2021 -- Taiwan has asked has Australia for help following the increase in recent days of incursions by Chinese jet fighters into Taiwan's air defense identification zone.
Joint Statement on Iraq's Early Elections US Dept. of State 06 Oct 2021 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
AUKUS deal was a 'wake-up call' for EU: Borrell Press TV 05 Oct 2021 -- European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell says the AUKUS alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States was a "wake-up call" for the EU and carried significant implications for the future of relations with Washington.
Australia to Reopen Borders After 18 Months Of COVID-19 Isolation VOA 01 Oct 2021 -- Australia will reopen its international borders in November to allow vaccinated travelers into the country for the first time in 18 months.
Snubbed by AUKUS, Canada, New Zealand Are Moving On VOA 30 Sep 2021 -- As experts digest the implications of the unexpected AUKUS agreement, initial fears that the deal could undermine one of the world's premier intelligence-sharing arrangements appear to be easing.
Australia and Indo-Pacific partners conclude multilateral exercise in Timor-Leste Australia DOD 29 Sep 2021 -- ADF personnel have completed the ninth iteration of Exercise Hari'i Hamutuk in Timor-Leste with defence partners from across the Indo-Pacific region.
Chinese FM stresses three dangers of U.S.-Britain-Australia nuclear-sub cooperation People's Daily 29 Sep 2021 -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi has highlighted three hidden dangers posed by the proposed cooperation by the United States, Britain and Australia on nuclear submarine technology.
AUKUS threatens regional peace, stability, international order: FM Global Times 30 Sep 2021 -- Many countries have expressed concerns and doubts over AUKUS and the plan for nuclear submarine cooperation between the US, the UK and Australia as the move will pose potential danger for regional peace and stability and the international order, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
Address to the National Press Club - September 2021 Malcolm Turnbull - 29th Prime Minister of Australia 29 Sep 2021
AUKUS, trilateral security partnership: joint op-ed by UK, US and Australia UK FCDO 29 Sep 2021 -- This op-ed is jointly authored by H.E. Dr Justin Lee, High Commissioner of Australia to Malaysia, H.E. Brian D. McFeeters, Ambassador of the United States of America to Malaysia and H.E. Charles Hay MVO, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Malaysia.
Duterte 'concerned' over AUKUS nuclear submarine deal Philippine News Agency 28 Sep 2021 -- President Rodrigo Duterte has raised concern over the new trilateral security pact among Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (AUKUS), Malacañang said on Tuesday.
AUKUS nuclear submarine deal harms innocent people in South Pacific again: FM Global Times 28 Sep 2021 -- The US, the UK and Australia should discard their outdated Cold War mentality, and walk back their wrong decision in a responsible manner as the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal harms innocent people in the South Pacific region again, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said at routine press conference on Tuesday.
Australia Divided Over Future of Mighty Coal Industry VOA 28 Sep 2021 -- Australia is under growing international pressure to commit to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, but the policy is fiercely dividing its center-right government.
UNITAS LXII Opening Ceremony Takes Place in Lima US Navy 27 Sep 2021 -- Naval and Marine forces from Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Spain, South Korea, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States gathered for the opening ceremony for UNITAS LXII, the longest running multinational maritime exercise, in Lima, Peru, Sept. 27.
Beijing Blasts Quad Security Dialogue, Says It Causes 'Discord' in Asia-Pacific Sputnik 27 Sep 2021 -- The so-called Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, better known as the Quad, is an informal security pact between the United States, Australia, India and Japan explicitly designed to confront China militarily and diplomatically in the Asia-Pacific region.
UNITAS LXII Kicks off in Lima US Navy 26 Sep 2021 -- Naval and Marine forces from Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico, Morocco, Panama, Peru, Spain, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States kicked off UNITAS LXII, an annual multinational exercise, Sept. 24, in Lima, Peru.
1st Quad summit tacitly targets China but US 'can't coordinate members' differences, doomed to fail' Global Times 25 Sep 2021 -- The leaders of the US, Japan, India and Australia - known as the Quad - finished their face-to-face meeting in Washington on Friday in an attempt to cement ties while containing China, but experts said that an interlude during the meeting involving US President Joe Biden complaining about his translation device malfunction is an omen of the emerging anti-China clique's future - that it cannot function at all due to US' declining capability and changes of the global situation.
Joint Statement from Quad Leaders The White House 24 Sep 2021
Quad Principles on Technology Design, Development, Governance, and Use The White House 24 Sep 2021
English translation of the Prime Minister's opening remarks at QUAD India PIB 25 Sep 2021
Biden Plays Host to In-person 'Quad' Leaders Summit VOA 24 Sep 2021 -- Leaders of the United States, Japan, India and Australia proclaimed Friday a shared commitment to safeguarding democracy in the Indo-Pacific region, leaving unspoken their common concern about China's growing power.
What Decade of Decline in Bilateral Ties Means for China, Australia VOA 24 Sep 2021 -- China is closely eyeing Australia's growing military capability with concern.
Malaysia to seek China's views on AUKUS as ASEAN countries fear nuclear proliferation, arms race Global Times 23 Sep 2021 -- As Southeast Asian countries grow unnerved about AUKUS, a trilateral pact between the US, the UK and Australia that will provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, Malaysia announced it would seek China's views on AUKUS, as the key ASEAN member is concerned about regional peace and stability that could be ruined by a security pact-triggered arms race.
Leaders from US, Australia, Japan and India to Meet in Washington Friday VOA 23 Sep 2021 -- Leaders of the United States, Japan, Australia and India are expected to meet in person Friday in Washington to discuss cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in the face of China's growing power in the region.
Deployment starts with a bang Australia DOD 23 Sep 2021 -- Huon-class minehunter coastal HMAS Gascoyne started its latest deployment with a bang, conducting a live mine disposal activity off the coast of northern NSW.
Boeing to build military drones in Australia amid submarine row Press TV 23 Sep 2021 -- American planemaker Boeing says it plans to build unmanned military aircraft in Australia, which recently blindsided France by a submarine deal with the United States.
Boeing Selects Australia for Company's First Final Assembly Facility Outside North America Boeing 22 Sep 2021 -- Boeing [NYSE:BA], in partnership with the Queensland Government, has selected Toowoomba as the preferred site for the company's first aircraft assembly facility of its kind outside of North America.
Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Meeting With Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison DoD 22 Sep 2021
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Welcomes Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison to the Pentagon DoD 22 Sep 2021 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III; Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison
Australian Prime Minister, Austin Discuss New Aspect of Trilateral Partnership DoD News 22 Sep 2021 -- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III sat down at the Pentagon today to discuss how the enhanced trilateral security partnership with the two nations and the United Kingdom will move forward.
US, European Allies Navigate Australian Submarine Deal's Wake VOA 22 Sep 2021 -- The United States and its European allies are navigating the diplomatic disturbance following an enhanced trilateral security partnership known as AUKUS (Australia, the UK, and the U.S.) that triggered what French officials described as a "crisis of trust" between Paris and Washington.
EU leaders express dismay at AUKUS deal, demand clarifications People's Daily 22 Sep 2021 -- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described as "unacceptable" the way France was treated by Australia, Britain and the United States in their newly established security partnership AUKUS.
Malaysia to Seek China's Views on AUKUS Pact in Minister's Beijing Visit Radio Free Asia 22 Sep 2021 -- Malaysia's defense chief will seek Beijing's views on a new U.S.-U.K.-Australia security pact and determine what action the Asian superpower plans in response, during an upcoming visit to China, he told parliament Wednesday.
Small step for satellite, giant leap for capability Australia DOD 22 Sep 2021 -- A controlled separation of Australia's M2 cube satellite in space was a recent success for Australia's space capability – with the satellite capturing a photo of the momentous event.
EU Rallies Behind Macron as France's Dispute With US, Britain Worsens VOA 21 Sep 2021 -- The Australian decision to cancel a $66 billion deal to buy 12 French diesel-electric submarines and to purchase instead at least eight more sophisticated nuclear-powered attack boats from Britain and America continues to reverberate with French officials smarting at what they see as a betrayal by London and Washington.
Biden seeks phone call with Macron amid submarine deal rift People's Daily 21 Sep 2021 -- U.S. President Joe Biden is seeking to hold a phone call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, U.S. officials said on Monday, an effort to reduce tensions caused by a controversial submarine deal.
EU analyzing AUKUS deal's impact on trade talks with Australia: Commission spokesperson People's Daily 21 Sep 2021 -- The European Commission is currently analyzing the impact the new security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (U.S.), dubbed AUKUS, on the next round of its trade negotiations with Australia, a Commission spokesperson said here on Monday.
'Something is broken' in the US-EU alliance: EU commissioner Press TV 21 Sep 2021 -- Tensions between European leaders and the United States have increased after President Joe Biden "stabbed in the back" of France and joined a multibillion nuclear submarine deal with Australia, with one EU official saying "something is broken" in the transatlantic alliance.
EU ministers say submarine row 'wake-up call' for Europe, not only a French matter Press TV 21 Sep 2021 -- The European Union (EU)'s top officials have branded as a "wake-up call" the recent decision by the United States and Britain to exclude France from a $40-billion agreement to supply conventional submarines to Australia.
EU rallies behind France in submarine row as Paris demands clarification from US Press TV 21 Sep 2021 -- European Union has expressed its support and solidarity with France as a row deepens over Australia's scrapping of a $40bn submarine order with Paris in favor of a US and British deal.
Philippines Throws Support Behind AUKUS Pact Radio Free Asia 21 Sep 2021 -- The Philippines backs a new U.S.-U.K.-Australia defense pact that addresses a military "imbalance" in Southeast Asia, Manila's top diplomat said Tuesday, in remarks that contrasted sharply with Indonesian and Malaysian concerns about a regional arms race.
Paris cancels French, UK defense ministers' meeting amid submarine row Press TV 20 Sep 2021 -- France has canceled an official meeting scheduled for this week between its Minister of the Armed Forces Florence Parly and UK Secretary of State for Defense Ben Wallace amid simmering tensions over a submarine row, a source in the French foreign office has said.
How a Western Military Pact for Nuclear Subs Affects China VOA 20 Sep 2021 -- The United States, United Kingdom and Australia on Thursday announced what the Royal Australian Navy describes on its website as an "enhanced trilateral security partnership" known as AUKUS (Australia, U.K. and U.S.). It says Australia will get at least eight nuclear-powered submarines, to be built domestically using American technology.
North Korea slams US' nuclear-powered submarine deal with Australia Global Times 20 Sep 2021 -- The Foreign Ministry of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on Monday slammed the US and UK's move to provide Australia with the technology to build nuclear-powered submarines, and said it will definitely take corresponding measures if the deal has a slightest adverse impact on North Korea's national security, according to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
DPRK slams U.S. decision to transfer nuke-powered submarine tech to Australia People's Daily 20 Sep 2021 -- The Foreign Ministry of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Monday criticized the United States for transferring the technology of building nuclear-powered submarines to Australia, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.
North Korea slams US for risking 'nuclear arms race' in submarine deal with Australia Press TV 20 Sep 2021 -- Pyongyang has condemned the United States over a controversial submarine deal with Australia that risks a "nuclear arms race," warning of countermeasures if it affects the security of North Korea.
Australian Navy Ships Touring SE Asia Make Port Call in Vietnam Radio Free Asia 20 Sep 2021 -- Three Australian naval ships arrived in Cam Ranh port in central Vietnam on Monday as part of Canberra's push to engage with partners in Southeast Asia, Vietnamese state media reported.
France: Biden, Macron to Confer on End of Australian Submarine Pact VOA 19 Sep 2021 -- France says U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron are planning to talk in the next few days about the diplomatic standoff that was triggered between the two old allies when Australia cancelled a submarine contract with Paris in favor of a new security alliance with the United States and Britain.
Australia Says New Defense Accord with US and Britain Will Boost Regional Security VOA 19 Sep 2021 -- Australia is defending its decision to join a tripartite alliance with the United States and Britain despite an angry reaction from France.
Australia-U.S.-UK deal meets backlash from Europe amid nuclear proliferation worries People's Daily 19 Sep 2021 -- Australia's decision to break off a multi-billion U.S. dollar submarine contract with France inked in 2016 and turn to the United States and Britain for nuclear-powered alternatives has sparked an outcry from the European continent.
US, UK discussed nuclear sub pact with Australia behind Macron's back: Report Press TV 19 Sep 2021 -- French President Emmanuel Macron was reportedly kept in the dark as the United States and Britain discussed a major security partnership pact with Australia, known as AUKUS, during the G7 summit earlier this year, torpedoing Canberra's multi-billion-dollar submarine contract with Paris.
France-UK Defense Minister Meeting Canceled Over AUKUS Fracas - Report Sputnik 19 Sep 2021 -- Earlier this week, France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia, bringing modern-day relations between the two countries to an unprecedented low. While the French ambassador to the UK was not recalled, the French foreign minister noted it was only because Paris was aware of the "UK's constant opportunism".
France Decries UK's 'Opportunism' And Participation in AUKUS, Calling London 'Fifth Wheel' Sputnik 19 Sep 2021 -- The news of the new defense alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States has caused a stir in France, as the new pact forces Canberra to drop a $66 billion contract with Paris for submarines. On Friday, France recalled its ambassadors from the US and Australia for consultations.
France Says Crisis in Relations With US Over AUKUS to Affect New NATO Concept Sputnik 19 Sep 2021 -- France will discuss the new NATO strategic concept bearing in mind the crisis in its relations with the United States, which formed a new strategic partnership with London and Canberra behind its ally's back, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Saturday.
The Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations Joint Statement: An Unbreakable Alliance for Peace and Prosperity Australia - Minister for Foreign Affairs 17 Sep 2021 -- Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin hosted Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Marise Payne and Minister for Defence Peter Dutton on September 16 in Washington D.C. for the 31st Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN 2021).
Navy enters new era Australia DOD 17 Sep 2021 -- Navy – and the Australian Defence Force – is about to undergo a major shift in military technology, in which it will enter a new era of sub-surface capabilities.
GT Voice: Naïve Australia foots the bill for US gambit Global Times 17 Sep 2021 -- Australian taxpayers have every reason to demand an answer from the Morrison administration as to why ordinary Australians always end up paying for America's cold war gambit.
US Will Boost Military Presence in Australia as China Slams 'Irresponsible' AUKUS Pact Sputnik 17 Sep 2021 -- On Wednesday, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, and his UK counterpart Boris Johnson unveiled the AUKUS security alliance "to protect and defend" the three countries' "shared interests in the Indo-Pacific".
US-UK-Australia pact angers France, EU more than China Press TV 17 Sep 2021 -- China and France have denounced the new Indio-Pacific security alliance between the US, Britain and Australia, with Beijing accusing the three powers of intensifying an arms race in the region and Paris calling it "a knife in the back".
Southeast Asian Nations Cautious Over New AUKUS Defense Pact Radio Free Asia 17 Sep 2021 -- Countries bordering the South China Sea who are wary of great power rivalries are reacting slowly and cautiously to the announcement of a trilateral defense pact between the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.
Canada Caught Off Guard By New AUKUS Security Pact, Report Says Sputnik 17 Sep 2021 -- Canada was caught off guard by the forming of the new security partnership between the United States, United Kingdom and Australia (AUKUS), the Globe and Mail reported on Friday citing defence, foreign affairs and intelligence officials.
Indonesia Wary of Australia's Plans to Acquire Nuclear Submarines Sputnik 17 Sep 2021 -- Indonesia has adopted a cautious approach to Australia's plans to acquire nuclear submarines but voiced its concern over alleged power projection in the region, the country's foreign ministry said on Friday.
France Recalls US, Australian Ambassadors Over Submarine Deal VOA 17 Sep 2021 -- France has recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia after Australia ended a deal to buy French submarines in favor of one to pursue nuclear-powered vessels using U.S. technology.
France Recalls Ambassadors From US, Australia for Consultations over AUKUS Alliance Sputnik 17 Sep 2021 -- This week, Australia, the UK and the US concluded a defense alliance (AUKUS) that involves assistance from Washington and London in Australia's efforts to acquire nuclear-propelled submarines. The pact entailed Canberra's withdrawal from a $66 billion contract with France to construct 12 submarines.
France Says It Cannot Trust Australia in Trade Talks After Canberra Ditched Joint Sub Deal Sputnik 17 Sep 2021 -- Australia previously dropped a $90-billion agreement with the French firm Naval Group under which the latter was supposed to build several attack-class submarines for the country. Paris has already slammed the move, prompted by the US promise to Canberra for nuclear-powered submarines, calling it a "stab in the back".
Australia to pursue nuclear-powered submarines through new trilateral enhanced security partnership Australia PM 16 Sep 2021 -- Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have agreed to the creation of an enhanced trilateral security partnership – AUKUS.
Joint Statement on Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) 2021 US Dept. of State 16 Sep 2021 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Australia on the occasion of the 31st Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) 2021.
Key naval projects confirmed for South Australia Australia PM 16 Sep 2021 -- South Australia will spearhead a major expansion of Australia's naval capabilities, supporting thousands of jobs and advancing the state's shipbuilding expertise.
Address: AUKUS - Canberra, ACT Australia PM 16 Sep 2021
Joint Leaders Statement on AUKUS Australia PM 16 Sep 2021 -- As leaders of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, guided by our enduring ideals and shared commitment to the international rules-based order, we resolve to deepen diplomatic, security, and defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, including by working with partners, to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. As part of this effort, we are announcing the creation of an enhanced trilateral security partnership called "AUKUS" -- Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Secretary Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, and Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton At a Joint Press Availability US Dept. of State 16 Sep 2021
Secretary Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, and Australian Defence Minister Peter Dutton At a Joint Press Availability DoD 16 Sep 2021
Australia, U.S. Alliance Is Stronger, Deeper Than Ever, Officials Say DoD News 16 Sep 2021 -- The Australia-U.S. alliance is stronger today than it ever has been, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said today, and the steps taken during the Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations at the State Department are aimed at keeping it that way.
Australia Signs New Defense Accord with US and Britain VOA 16 Sep 2021 -- Australia has signed a new security partnership with the United States and Britain to share defense technologies in what analyst say is an effort to counter the potential threat from China.
Biden stabs France in the back on Australia nuclear deal: French foreign minister Press TV 16 Sep 2021 -- France has accused US President Joe Biden of stabbing it in the back and acting like his predecessor Donald Trump after the Biden administration pushed Paris aside and signed a lucrative multi-billion nuclear deal with Australia for submarines.
Nuke sub deal could make Australia 'potential nuclear war target' Global Times 16 Sep 2021 -- The US, UK and Australia have announced a new alliance named "AUKUS" to target China, and they even made a deal to provide nuclear submarines to Australia. Chinese military experts warned that such a move will potentially make Australia a target of a nuclear strike if a nuclear war breaks out even when Washington said it won't arm Canberra with nuclear weapons, because it's easy for the US to equip Australia with nuclear weapons and submarine-launched ballistic missiles when Australia has the submarines.
AUKUS to bring 'nuclear-powered submarine fever' across globe: Global Times editorial Global Times 16 Sep 2021 -- US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison almost announced simultaneously on Wednesday that the three countries will form an enhanced trilateral security partnership called "AUKUS." This has been regarded as an effort of the US to build a new alliance against China. The pact will support Australia in acquiring nuclear-powered submarines and enabling patrol of nuclear-powered submarines in the Indo-Pacific region.
China Accuses US of Intensifying Arms Race by Creating AUKUS Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- The newly-formed AUKUS (Australia-UK-US) defence alliance threatens stability in the region and provokes an arms race, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said on 16 September.
French FM 'Angry' With Australia's Decision to Terminate Submarine Contract, Expects Explanations Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- The French Foreign Ministry has described Australia's withdrawal from the agreement with the Naval Group as a deplorable move that is not in line with the spirit of Franco-Australian cooperation.
Morrison Touts Tomahawk Missile Procurement, Says Nuclear Subs Will Be 'in the Water' in 10 Years Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- As leaders from Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States unveiled their new trilateral security partnership for advanced defense-tech sharing on Wednesday, it was also revealed that the first initiative of the endeavor would be the delivery of Australia's first nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
Australia Withdraws From Agreement on Submarines With French Naval Group – Ministers Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- Australia has decided to leave the $90-billion agreement on submarines with the French company of Naval Group to prefer the cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines under the newly established AUKUS alliance with the United States and the United Kingdom.
EU Not Informed About New US, UK & Australia Alliance, Plans 'to Assess Implications' Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- On Thursday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson assured that the new alliance between Australia, the UK, and the US is not directed against other countries, insisting that AUKUS just reflects the high level of trust and cooperation among the nations.
France May Demand Compensation From Australia for Submarine Deal Breach, Defence Minister Says Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- Paris may demand compensation from Canberra for its withdrawal from the $66 billion submarines agreement with France's Naval Group shipbuilder, French Defence Minister Florence Parly said on 16 September.
AUKUS Not Intended to Be Adversarial to Other Countries, UK PM Johnson Says Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- The new alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (AUKUS) is not directed against other countries, it just reflects a high level of trust and cooperation, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson assured on Thursday.
'Cold War mentality' in US, British, Australia pact: China Press TV 16 Sep 2021 -- China has reacted to a new trilateral security alliance announced by the United States, Britain and Australia aimed at addressing defense and security concerns in the Indo-Pacific region, calling on the three countries to shake off their 'Cold War' mentality.
China Slams 'Irresponsible' Three-Way Security Pact on Nuclear-Powered Submarines Radio Free Asia 16 Sep 2021 -- China hit out on Thursday at a trilateral security pact between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia that will help Canberra develop nuclear submarines, calling it "severely damaging" to regional peace and stability.
China Warns Against Exclusionary Blocs After AUKUS Launched Sputnik 16 Sep 2021 -- China opposes the creation of exclusionary blocs that may harm the interests of third parties, Embassy in Washington spokesperson Liu Pengyu said in a statement to Sputnik when asked to respond to the newly-launched Australia-UK-US (AUKUS) defense pact.
Remarks by President Biden, Prime Minister Morrison of Australia, and Prime Minister Johnson of the United Kingdom Announcing the Creation of AUKUS The White House 15 Sep 2021
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Australian Minister of Defence Peter Dutton Opening Remarks at Bilateral Meeting DoD 15 Sep 2021
Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Payne US Dept. of State 15 Sep 2021
Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne Before Their Meeting US Dept. of State 15 Sep 2021
Poseidon fleet modifications complete Australia DOD 15 Sep 2021 -- A significant capability milestone has been achieved for Air Force's P-8A Poseidon platform.
UK, US AND Australia launch new security partnership Gov.UK 15 Sep 2021 -- 'AUKUS' partnership will work to protect our people and support a peaceful and rules-based international order.
Australian, U.S. Defense Leaders Discuss Future of Alliance DoD News 15 Sep 2021 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III thanked Australian Defense Minister Peter Dutton for his country's steadfast support over the long course of the conflicts sparked by the 9/11 attacks, and said the two nations must work even more closely together for the future.

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