Episode 22: Royal Australian Navy fires Tomahawk and a round up of the week in maritime security

Show Notes: Episode 22: Royal Australian Navy fires Tomahawk and a round up of the week in maritime security
In this final episode of 2024, Jennifer Parker (www.jennifer-p...) and Richard Dunley (www.unsw.edu.a...) wrap up the year in maritime affairs, reflecting on key issues and trends that shaped the domain. The series, which launched in April, has become a platform for thoughtful discussions on maritime strategy, security, and capability.
Episode Highlights
Topic 1: What’s Happening in the Region?
1. Scarborough Shoal Incident (Dec 4):
o Escalating tensions in the South China Sea as Chinese Coast Guard vessels confront Philippine patrols.
o Diplomatic protests from the Philippines signal a continued pushback against Beijing’s aggressive actions.
o More details.
2. Russian Submarine in the South China Sea:
o A Russian Kilo-class submarine, Ufa, transits near Philippine waters.
o Read more.
3. US, Japan, and Philippine Joint Patrols:
o Allied forces conduct coordinated patrols to assert freedom of navigation near Scarborough Shoal.
4. Taiwan Strait Tensions:
o Increased Chinese naval and air force activity in response to political developments in Taiwan.
Topic 2: Capability Updates
• Tomahawk Milestone:
o Australia successfully test-fires its first Tomahawk missile, signalling a leap in long-range strike capability.
o Details.
• Missile Manufacturing in Australia:
o Construction begins on a new cruise missile plant in Newcastle, boosting domestic production capacity.
• Land-Based Maritime Strike:
o The Australian Army progresses plans for coastal defence capabilities, with HIMARS and NSM under consideration.
Did You Know?
• This week’s segment explores definitions of long-range strike.
Links and Resources
• Jen’s recent publications:
o Time for an Australian Coastguard (navalinstitute...)
o Export Control Shifts: Unlocking the Potential of AUKUS Collaboration (www.ecag.com.a...)
o China's Push for Closer Defence Ties Is Unrealistic Without Behaviour Change (www.afr.com/po...)
• Missile range classification:
o www.armscontro....
Join us in 2025 as we continue to explore the ever-changing world of maritime strategy and security!