Air Power - Australia What aircraft? How many? How good?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ส.ค. 2024
- Ghost Bats, Growlers, and Lightnings. The Royal Australian Air Force is equipped with some of the most sophisticated aircraft in the world. This briefing will look at the aircraft that make up the RAAF, how many there are, and the airbases where they will operate out of.
See related briefings:
Australia's Defence Strategic Review - Submarines, Stealth & Armour: • Australia's Defence St...
Australia's New Fighting Force - the ADF after the Defence Strategic Review: • Australia's New Fighti...
Naval Power - Australia: Which vessels? How many?: • Naval Power - Australi...
I'm pleased by the RAAF structure overall. We have a great mix of strengths, & MQ-28 is a great starting point to see what UCAV's will do for us.
A great initiative IMHO.
Without an aircraft carrier or a long range bomber. I believe we missing out on long range strike capability
@@Strategy_AnalysisWhy doesn't RAAF dont go for long-range bombers? Isn't RAAF missing out on long range stike capability?
@Nathan-ry3yu Our Poseidons can do long range naval strike, but they're extremely vulnerable to air defence. Ironically, our C-17 might be a credible long range strike asset using the palletised launching systems the US have developed recently. Though of course they're just as vulnerable... I'd love us to make a cheap medium bomber capable of long range strike & reconnaissance.
@@Nathan-ry3yu Well I can't say what capabilities the RAAF or Government MAY have wanted, but couldn't find a way to fund it, or the Government didn't want that specific capability. The RAAF will have, to some degree, a long range strike capability with the 1900km range JASSM-ER launched from F-35 and F/A-18E/F.
It looks like a really high-quality air force for a medium-power nation. Sure there isn't as much air to ground capability, but we don't need it. Air to ocean along with long range detection are more vital for securing our interests, while developing our drone force will see us stay right near the cutting edge technology-wise.
Yes, certainly some cutting-edge technology in service and being developed.
I've heard that one of the reasons for the Ghost Bat being a Boeing Australia project is to bypass the USA's difficult export requirements and avoid a repeat of the F22 & F35. It will have a huge positive effect to able to work collaboratively with countries such as Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and possibly others such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and India. And will certainly be good for the Australian economy and technological advancement!
Great video! Thanks for your time and research in putting together such an accurate and thorough video!
Much appreciated.
Another really good presentation. Keep them coming. love the format.
Thank you, much appreciated. Still trying to improve production.
In the short term I would take up the options to expand the P-8A Poseidon fleet to 15, the KC-30A MRTT fleet to 9 and ramp-up production of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat. For a massive increase in firepower that can be achieved very quickly and with very minimal risk, I would also acquire the modular 'rapid dragon' palletised cruise missile system for the C-130J-30 Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster-III fleets to enable them to launch up to 12 or 45 JASSM-ER/LRASM respectively. In the longer term replace the Super Hornet/Growler with equivalent numbers of either the USAF NGAD or USN F/AXX in the early-mid 2030's, with the Growler's ALQ-249 next-gen jammer pods to be retained for the F-35A (or both) on a modular basis. Replace the Hawk-127 with a more advanced variant of the T-7 Redhawk or T/FA-50 Golden Eagle as the lead-in fighter replacement around the same time. Development of a larger twin-engine follow-on to the Ghost Bat with a single F-35A sized internal weapon bay should be explored in the same timeframe.
Thanks for the comment. Some interesting thoughts there. Certainly a possibility for more KC-30A and Ghost Bats. Agree that the F/A-18Fs might be replaced by either of the next U.S. fighters.
I would love to see an indigenous long range, reduced signature, high endurance, heavyweight UAV. Something that would be a cheap medium bomber & epic sensor platform, we'd be able to use for intel patrols, with a solid long range precision strike threat.
More realistically, I think we should investigate the MQ-25 as a force multiplier to include in our fighter squadrons. Imagine how great it could be if they had integral air to air refuelling.
Some of you have no idea lol. Australian designers who designed MQ28A Ghost Bat were already designing new drones.
RAAF Commander head of Ghost Bat programme even smirks as he said this. even saying Ghost Bat was a trial of the AI and if we could build a platform like it.
So yes we are building bigger different drones.
Have Strix now also a loyal wingman to our helicopters.
@@nedkelly9688 Please enlighten us with more of your divine knowledge on these 'bigger different drones' rather than throwing out insults and vague speculations. The MQ-28A program is being accelerated by the government as we speak to produce mass production ready 'block-2' aircraft. It will not be an entirely new aircraft at all, it will just feature necessary improvements to address any problems or weaknesses discovered in the current aircraft during the development and testing phase.
@@joelrobertson6678 lol keyboard warrior i researched Ghost Bat very hard and found the info where no other journalist has.
Australian RAAF Commander head of Ghost Bat tells more info on the drone then any other source anywhere.
Yes current Ghost Bat is in production and is getting block update.
Does not mean they are not designing newer bigger drones.
He clearly states as he walks through Boeing Australia engineers and designers are already designing new platforms as we speak.
He also stated will they make it bigger in the future and smirks. said something of it could be a possibility.
Go type in this. 25 mins in is Ghost Bat before is all about the F35..
Air Combat Capability - F35 and the Ghost Bat Program
Royal United Service Institute of New South Wales channel.
Excellent. Watched it twice just to clear up a couple of things.
Thank you, much appreciated. Do you have any questions?
@@Strategy_Analysis Nope, you answered them in the video :)
@@kcharles8857 Great.
The RAAF is only missing a long range strike aircraft such as the b-2 spirit. I believe the RAAF will purchase the B-21 to fill in the massive capability gap.
RIP Aardvark
Government says says no I believe.
They really should consider the B21 IMO.
IMO there's 0% chance we can afford B-21! Look at what SSN AUKUS is costing us. It's a safer strategic call, but I'm certain we can't afford both.
Most of us are aware of the economic situation that the ADF is going through. I was making a statement towards the diversification of capabilities and why it’s always been a good idea to do this. If AUKUS is the system capable of effectively disrupting the Chinese economy then it won’t take long to counter it.
Thanks for the info: Kind regards, PLA
Interesting vid👍B21 is great suggestion but long range stand off missiles is cheaper option. At one stage C17 was under the pump n 8 wasn’t enough that 10 would have been nice, two extra be use for NZ operations. I still feel close in air support CAS is needed small fleet of 6 C-130J gunships plus A10 replacements or modify ghosts bats.
Given the USAF's Rapid Dragon palletised launching systems for LRASM, ER-JASSM, SDB etc. I think we have great extended range cruise missile bomber capability via our strategic & tactical lift capability.
@@corvanphoenixthe problem is they are easier to see on radar and have much slower response time. In short fall it may work but to project would have a lot of vulnerability. It still leaves Australia out of long strike capability in comparison to a long range bomber. I think Australia government should had invested with Boeing Australia to build a long range bomber varent of the MQ28 ghost bat drone. And purchase Rapid dragon. The combination of two would be very affective it would allow Australia to strike anywhere in the pacific and south China sea
I agree that we need dedicated CAS. Not every situation can be solved by standoff weapons. A unit in urgent need of CAS would prefer gunships and choppers to provide intimate support in a tactical situation. Imaging being on the ground in fire fight and call for bomb run. How many F-35's will be available for tasking? How long to respond for an immediate requirement? F-35's are not made for CAS.
Isn't modern CAS now - a mix of expendable surveillance drones and suicide drones? I don't think any Airforce now thinks manned aircraft will survive near the main line of conflict. @@crusher8017
Apache is the best for CAS
The interim purchase of the 36 super hornets/growlers is possibly the best purchase regarding backup support for the US navy…..this should become the cornerstone of any future acquisitions!In short if the U.S. Navy chooses a particular future acquisition Australia should seriously consider pursuing this option for this support reasons
Actually no longer interim but long-term solutions. Australia being the only country outside of the U.S. to use the Growler. Well the U.S. Navy's future Advanced Tactical Fighter might well be selected as the F-35 replacement.
I've always thought that in the late 2030 Australia will announce acquisition of the us navy FAXX with a small fleet of loyal wingman to work in tandem with the f35 and ghost bat. Time will tell if that happens
I have always been a bigger fan of the USAF heavyweight option since I was a kid when I favoured F-15 over the F/A-18. However I wonder if the bigger wing of the -35C would have been better for us than the 9G the -35A gives us.
@@Strategy_Analysis That will be the replacement for the 18's and not the 35's although more likely we will be getting the NGAD instead of the FAXX.
We don't back up the US Navy and therefore our purchase decisions are not based on this criteria. Our 18's are not carrier capable and so therefore why would we buy an aircraft just because the US Navy is buying it. We bought the classic 18's because it was the best option for the RAAF and not because it was a US Navy aircraft.
We need a force of about 16 B-21 Raider bombers for long range maritime strike. This would be a powerful deterrent.
The cost of 16 B-21s would cost $17B Australian dollars, for the same money Australia could buy 216 more F35s bringing the total up to 298 instead of 72. Strategic bombers are designed to get deep into enemy airspace to drop strategic like nuclear weapons or air launched cruise missiles or large payloads of bombs. Its an offensive capability not a defensive deterrent designed to hit fixed strategic targets deep in enemy territory and something that Australia doesn't need for defence.
@@dexterplameras3249 Neither are reasonable ideas. We could not operate 298 F35's. We could barely operate 100.
Lindsay, as others have said, we can't afford them. For "long range maritime strike" we have the F-35, F/A - 18 F, supported by the EF 18 G, E7,P8 and MRRT.
Being an Englishman now living in NZ thank you Australia. Now you need to have an even greater military and becoume the Southern Hemisphere superpower. Too many crappy countries down here to not worry.
Really hope the Super Hornets and Growlers get the Block III upgrade to increased their range, stealth and sensors
Given that they seem to be long-term solutions, I think that could well happen.
Didn't the government cancel the rest of the order of F35A to upgrade the super hornets to block III instead
@@Nathan-ry3yu the RAAF did downsize the initial order to 72 F35As, but I haven't seen any news regarding Block III/Growler upgrades for RAAF Superhornets, if I had to speculate cost savings, the Growler acquisition, potential Block III upgrades plus projected MQ-28 Ghost Bats would explain the reduced number of F35s
Hey mate, loved the video. Two things I noticed that could help you out in future. There’s a noticeable lack of flow between sentences and it makes the information a bit disjointing. Also I know most TH-camrs won’t but if you could just mention what your sources are at the start, end or even as you go. Those two things would do great to improve the video quality. I’m not shitposting, just some advice. Cheers mate
Thanks for the feedback. To be honest I don't like recording myself speaking, but just have to do it. I'll work on it. Absolutely re noting sources. In terms of numbers, these come from official sources, e.g. a particular service's own site, and the Internal Institute for Strategic Studies' "The Military Balance".
@@Strategy_Analysis All good mate, most people aren’t too strong recording themselves talking but it’s just something that takes time and practice. Thanks for the sources, I really appreciate it
Thank you most sincerly. I really appreciate your videos and research & analysis.
I have always been of a mind, that the best use of stealth aircraft, in totality, is to locate and designate targetting date to missile trucks, which are not stealthy, but have speed and carrying capacity on their side. In this way, the recently developed 180 KM range air to ground munitions can be utilised, without over exposure of stealth vehicles.
A possible far future video you can do is what will replace in time the LHD’s Hobart’s and the M1A2 we’re getting. A report apparently came out say the Abrams will be totally obsolete around 2040.
Replacement for the M1A2s will be interesting, partly because by then the Government might not want tanks. If they do then most likely the next U.S. tank, although I'm interested in whatever develops out of the Franco-German effort.
@@Strategy_Analysis I saw recently that the joint france and Germany program for a new MBT has seen France kicked out with upto three other countries joining Germany.
@@lindsaybaker9480 Yes, saw that. Likely a power play by Germany. Likely France will come back in, although not a certainty.
Good coverage. Of all the services, the RAAF is the most balanced and comprehensive. It has a well thought out armament plan and procurement plan. As with the wider ADF, the RAAF has a limited number or shortage of active personnel. Hopefully this may get addressed with the recent increase ADF in funding.
Personally, I would like to see an increase in the number of FA 18's and if these are to be replaced in the near future, the Saab Grippen gets my vote due to its low maintenance cost, range, weapons load and internal cannon. Also the purchase or lease of the F117 would give the RAAF long range strike potential. Again active personnel become a barrier to increasing numbers.
F117?
I remain very curious about the eventual deployment of our new helo's.
Pound for pound, RAAF has to be just about the most capable and advanced air force in the world. Obviously much smaller and therefore less capable overall than the USAF or PLAAF, but when you take into account the average age/capabilities of the combat and non combat assets, I cant think of anyone doing better. 5th gen penetration is great, top notch AWACS and refuelling aircraft, soon to be even more potent in ELINT/EW once the peregrines and -maybe- MQ-28s come online.
Looking in from the outside, RAAF feel so much better at forward planning and procurement than the other services. A shame that interservice rivalry will probably never allow much of that understanding/attitude to bleed into the RAN...
Thanks for the comment. Agree that the RAAF is very capable, as I mention in the brief. Not sure what you mean with your last point, having worked with all 3 Services.
I don’t think the Army and Navy are incapable, it outside interference that think they know better. It something that has been occurring for almost ever.
Example the Navy we might have had 4 destroyers, 3 LHD or even 12 Subs x2. The Army is seen as last needs I remember as kid seeing some predictions of future army equipment, 40 years on they are still predicting the same gear.
The idea of perfect equipment that does everything has been another issue where bean counters go you can’t buy this and that to cover the short fall, it is this or nothing.
Chinas, as you mention, is clearly doing much better. Moreover their ageing assets have been repurposed into state of the art drones - so yeah, nah. Turkey is also delivering some impressive indigenous tools, Israel has a host of impressive weapons, Russia has some of the most advanced aircraft in the world, even Iran is developing good tech. Australia still has old tech lying about - and we are no where near as advanced as other countries. China is by far the most impressive.
@@audas China is good at what? Falsifying their tech. There are many examples of high tech fraud by China including their current pulsating engine drone.
Do you think Australia has not done that too. I suggest you look in the M113 drone project.
Here are some projects that put Australia right up there in High Tech.
1) Cardboard drones
2) Ghost Bat
3) 3D print Ghost Shark
4) Ghost a hands-free robotic control method.
5) Autonomous Trucks
6) Drone M113
7) Drone that launchers Drones
8) Laser weapons
9) Counter drone weapons
10) Blue bottle.
11) Drone that fires Javelin
12) Wedgetail E-7
13) Metal storm.
Iran has high tech, 555.
Russia advanced aircraft, 555.
Turkey has Advanced weapons but high tech not yet. Drone tech is the same level as many western nations.
You can only be impressed by what you know.
@@audas You simply didn't understand a word of the OP's comment.
We still have the same combat structure since Korea - 3 squadrons of fighters, 2 squadrons of bombers, and 1 squadron of maritime patrol. There have been gaps plug-in AEW and refuelling that enable combat capability, but we still have the same numbers (or less) fighting machines. Basically we rearrange deck chairs every “strategic review”
@@highcountrydelatite State of Origin pub crawls don't count
@@highcountrydelatite So you're saying they _do_ count? In that case, Australia has been involved in more wars than the rest of humanity will ever fight.
Pretty sure when I was in (80s-early 90s) we had 2 maritime patrol squadrons. 10 and 11, both running Orions out of Edinburgh. Fairly certain they still exist.
A few mistakes in here, most obvious is the image used for the AGM-88, that's a British ALARM not a US sourced HARM (A bit picky, but the sidewinder pictured is a M where AU tends to used only the X now).
Along with the F-18 Growler, I understand that the MQ-28 can also perform this role, to what extent I do not know, however, this crucial role in air warfare should ideally be spread more widely via data links.
It is a shame that Australia's stocks of missiles bombs will be depleted in one strike
Exactly. Just look at how much the war in Ukraine has costed. It is depleting munition stores in massive numbers. Production just cannot keep up.
100% .
We need to manufacture our own equipment & munitions.
I believe we need a 2nd tier defence strategy of locally manufactured equipment, that we can continue the defensive fighting after our tier one front line has been expended.
Ghost Bats, Growlers, and Lightnings represent the cutting edge of the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) capabilities, showcasing Australia's commitment to maintaining a sophisticated air defense system. Given Australia's vast territory, the nation faces unique strategic and logistical challenges in ensuring its security against potential sophisticated adversaries equipped with large amphibious and air platforms. The current deployment of the RAAF in New South Wales, Western Australia, and southern Queensland is logistically impractical, given the challenges of supplying, rearming, and staffing northern forces.
The suggestion to relocate the entire RAAF to the Northern Territory, the northwest of Western Australia, as well as areas like Cooktown or Weipa, underscores the strategic importance of positioning Australia's air defence capabilities closer to potential entry points for adversaries. This move would necessitate the development of new runways and bases, transforming locations like Curtin into frontline fighter launch bases, thereby enhancing Australia's ability to rapidly respond to threats. An additional 75 F-35 or similar type Raptor or the latest F-18 would bolster capability.
Similarly, the current disposition of the Australian Army in New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, and southern Western Australia is considered suboptimal. The focus on drone technology, while innovative, is critiqued some form of interoperability with F-35 assets howeve, this role is realistically unachievable they still require a pilot housed somewhere and with comms and radar jamming can become ineffectual their best suited in surveillance, linked to JORN, intelligence, and fire support capabilities.
The Australian Navy's strategy, emphasising large vessels reminiscent of mid-20th-century naval doctrine and a spend cost of 54 billion is a folly and should be also called into question. Smaller, well-equipped attack crafts, (US Cyclone Patrol Boats) outfitted with the latest missiles, armaments, and anti-submarine weapons and sonars (TOWED ARRAY), would offer more tactical flexibility and effectiveness for offshore patrols than larger vessels like the Hobart or Hunter classes. The entire Officer class needs to re-think how to command.
Proposals for enhancing Australia's northern defense include converting Bathurst Island/Melville Island into a strategic naval and air base akin to Pearl Harbor, signifying a major shift in defense posture. This reflects a recognition that the north of Australia, once considered a natural barrier to invasion, has become a vulnerable and underprepared front in modern defence planning.
Such strategic realignment and infrastructure development would significantly shift Australia's defence strategy, emphasising rapid response capabilities, advanced surveillance, and flexible, potent naval forces to safeguard its extensive coastline and territorial interests.
I think the RAAF has the right equipment. Numbers might need to go up or change on some but it is about right.
Intersting vid I saw the other day, Senior USAF called for F/A18F to be purchase to replace the A10 as Close Air Support.
All services are suffering personnel shortages, to much in the last few years has not focus on them.
As i mentioned in the briefing, the RAAF does have an aircrew shortage. More aircraft may not be able to be used due to no crew.
The only thing the RAAF is missing is a long range strike capability. We have nothing to fill that gap.
@@crusher8017 The Governemnt seems to be banking on the SSNs armed with long-range missiles filling that capability requirement.
I know that. We need a long range strike aircraft.
The problem with that is all of the eggs are in one basket. Must have multiple delivery systems.
Excellent briefing. Couple of questions:
1. Which of the RAAFaircraft have in-flight refueling capability; and
2. Can the RAAF BAE Hawk be armed and used in FGA role?
I'll answer in 2 separate replies. On in-flight refueling, I didn't mention it in the briefing (and should have), but the KC-30As can refuel: F-35A, F/A-18F, E/A-18G, P-8A, C-17A, E-7A, and other KC-30A.
Regarding the Hawk 127 being used in the FGA or CAS role, it can be armed and IIRC this capability was something that went in its favour when it was selected. How survivable it would be in the modern battlespace would be questionable, even in low-intensity conflict. However, if projects go according to plan (yes, I know), it is to be replaced soon. It will be interesting if the replacement has this capability.
I think it's a consequence of government policy historically favouring the air sea gap. But the RAAF seems to be the only service in the ADF that has a clear vision and for the most part gets its acquisitions part right. Unlike the other two services the RAAF seem to buy most of their kit off the shelf and directly through FMS. The biggest recent miss has clearly been the Spartan. Which by all reports is a dog not fit for service.
What's wrong with the Spartan?
Thank you.
No worries. Thanks.
S&AC i have enjoyed your briefings since the beginning of your channel and have seen every one of your videos..
i ask you if it would be possible to provide your dedicated followers and all others a realistic weekly or better daily sitrep for whats about to unravel in the middle east. surely any intelligence operator worth their salt would be all over it. it's certainly no secret anymore.
may god help us all
Apologies for late reply, having some connectivity issues. Unfortunately I don't have the time to do daily updates. I might be able to squeeze in weekly ones, but if the topic is the middle east, it won't be promoted by TH-cam. Send me an email.
I don't think Australia needs to worry too much about a peer or near peer adversary. Any adversary will be much much bigger.
True but we also have island advantage, which means we only have to stop people reaching the shores, so the numbers difference is easier to deter… as opposed to a land invasion like Ukraine… probably the same reason China hasn’t invaded Taiwan yet.
In a serious conflict imagine what you might need and at least double it.
A secure base strategy, range, speed and payload are the keys to airpower in the Australian environment.
We should get the F-15EX. We have F-35's and now we need a fighter with payload and range to complement
The F-15EX certainly has better range/payload performance than the F/A-18F, but I don't see that happening due to commonality with the EA-18G which will definitely remain in service.
@@Strategy_Analysis Don't forget that the F15 is also a way better looking plane, which is a critical deterrent
Absolutely a better looking plane.
The F15EX in terms of unrefuelled range and payload is an almost perfect match for Australia's multirole fighter requirements over the next decade or so. The RAAF would have to add around four combat squadrons but that would be a minimal response to deteriorating strategic circumstances. They should be bought in numbers, my suggestion is sixty.
@@jimgraham6722 The F-15EX is a very good platform. For good or bad it is very unlikely Australia will procure it.
You showed a skyflash mounted on an FC3 Tornado as the AGM-88
The F35 of the RAAF although stealthy, it has a limited range to fully cover the northern approaches to Australia especially given that the Chinese are already in the Solomon islands and Tuvalu - ie in Australia's backyard and within the longer range of Chinese aircraft they can reach far into the Northern parts of Australia as far as Townsville.
Good review but why didn't you mention Jindalee? I know it's not an aircraft but probably the most important part of Australia long range air and sea detection capability.
Absolutely, JORN is a fantastic capability, world leading. This briefing focused on RAAF aircraft. I might cover it in a future briefing.
Funny looking AGM-88 hehe at 6:50
Great video...what are the issues with the C27j Spartans?
Thank you. I'll try to find the article again. Seems that they would not operate well in a combat scenario.
@@Strategy_Analysis yeah that’d be great. I spent about 10 days hanging out the back of one during Operation Christmas Drop a few years back not long after they acquired them. We flew around far North Queensland then to the Pilbara via a pitstop in Alice Springs (a C17 was there was at the same time resupplying pine gap). The RAAF lads spoke pretty highly of it at the time…great with the short/rough runways we used and good manoeuvrability but I’d imagine being Italian made might’ve made training/parts an issue.
@@liddz434So it appears the 2 main issues were remediation of its Missile Approach and Warning System (MAWS) capability (so self-defence), and poor availability rates. Might explain why the additional C-130Js were purchased.
@@Strategy_Analysis yeah fair enough, cheers
@@Strategy_Analysis Unfortunately buying more C-130's won't fill the capability gap of the Spartans.
We could grab some ex US B1 lancers. Long range super sonic F111 with a great heavy weight 👊
Too old and replacement parts are becoming hard to acquire.
Hi mate, very good video indeed as usual.
I’m personally not someone who wants the RAAF to acquire the F-35B but I find the idea of getting some F15EX’s or B-21’s interesting.
I know the RAAF doesn’t have the funding of a great powers airforce but I think a really interesting video would be if you assumed our budget increased a bit more, something like (in % of GDP terms) like that of the US or even Israel. In other words something realistic and sustainable but still much higher than it is now.
And then make the case for the RAAF acquiring F-15 EX, F35B and B-21 even if you then suggest why they wouldn’t be a good idea to acquire anyway.
I think it would make for an interesting video.
Thanks Chris, I'll give it some thought.
Did you just say we should have a 110 Billion AUD defence budget over double from our current 2.04% to 4.5% of gdp (69.9B USD)
@@TylerMarkRichardson No, I did not. Perhaps you need to have your eyes checked, or have a primary school English tutor go over what I wrote with you.
Maybe the KAI Kf 21 Boramae or the BAE Tempest in time????
The f-35a would be the best fit for Australia. The B model gives up too much range for the ducted fan for the STOVL capability. The fa-18f's are going to needed as bomb trucks eventually, especially following safely behind the F-35's to extend the number of targets the 35's can hit. The Ghost Bat looks like a good magazine extender or attack dog to cover the stealth fighters.
The F-35B's weapons bays are also smaller than those on the other F-35s.
The RAAF like the other branches seems to be on the right track with acquisitions and capabilities and arguably have the least questions about their future operations and capabilites
The RAAF didn't suffer the fate of the RAF and get the F-35B forced on it. Leaving it with the most capable of the Lightning II models to operate and the greatest Variety of weapons to operate, Which is good. Although one wonders why we would ever get any anyway without a fixed wing carrier to bring them merit.
Questions are mostly related to future speculation.
Will an effort be made to crack the 100 strong fighter force, which has apparently been a desire for some time.
Will we look at getting more F-35As to replace older Hornets? It might be more sensible to focus onto a single, more capable platform in the long term.
Will we look at something to replace C-130 in service? Perhaps one of the turbofan options. Unlikely since we're only recently ordered another 20 C-130Js.
What will the integration of UCAVs into the RAAF look like? How much of the "weight" will they take off the manned aircraft, and how much capability can the bring.
Will a replacement for F-111 in Long range strike be acquired, Or is F-35 considered good enough for that? I honestly don't know of anything that really fits that bill outside of the B-21, which is likely why nothing has been looked at. B-21 is off the books for the foreseeable future anyway.
What will the LIFT replacement be? Will we look at something like an updated Hawk? Or something else, like the M-346, or FA-50 with far better attack capabilities? Or will we acquire the New American Trainers?
Very detailed post, thank you. Well the RAAF do have over 100 Fighter/Strike when adding the F-35, F/A-18F, & EA-18G. A substantial force.
A new LIFT (Lead In Fighter Trainer) would be interesting. In the past countries would look at this acft being able to provide some limited close air support in combat operations. Is that feasible in the future battlespace?
There is no way the F-35 can compare in payload and distance endurance for it to act as a psuedo strategic bomber. We need a replacement for the F-111 ASAP.
@@crusher8017 Sorry dude, but there's nothing on the table for that except maybe Rapid Dragon.
B21 isn't available, and it isn't all about tonnes carried, The F-35's ability to get in drop precisely and get out, all while having a clear picture of the battlespace is why it's the current king of fighters right now.
@@crusher8017In my view the principle defence risks are over the next five or six years. We need a syrong air power capability in numbers in that timeframe. As a tactical bomber and ground attack aircraft, the F15EX has very similar unrefuelled range/payload to the F111. It also has a significant air to air capability. As a tough battle proven airframe it is without peer. Even better it is nearing production and is relatively inexpensive. It will undoubtedly be a mainstay of the USAFs tactical airforce for many years to come so is assured of support for many decades. In this context it would be an excellent buy for the RAAF.
In fifteen to twenty years B21s, possibly, but it will be too late for the next war and one hell of a lot of eggs in one basket.
Attrition and serviceability could be the issue.
Eyes-on -
F18 Eagle II
KAI KF 21 Boramae
BAE Tempest.
Is Learmonth active?
Many thanks. Great reporting.
What are the issues with the CJ27 Spartan’s guys? I recently saw one in Cairns when I was there
That Ghost Bat is pretty much the stuff of science fiction. Wow
Should prove to be a very valuable capability.
Short legs of the F-18F concerns me, maybe the F-15EX would be better. Also more KC-30, P-8, Ghost-bat's, and MQ-4C.
Yes, going to need lots of tanker support. If the Ghost Bat works out, I'm sure there will be many more in the future.
I think the issue lack of ability to strike at long range. Previously we had the F111 for the long range bomber/strike role. Given the long distances just within Australia the F35s and the FA18s are not suitable. Also air to air refuelling that needs to be close to the enemy would make the tankers vulnerable to long range air to air missiles.
Maybe, if/when we get them, that’ll be the task of the nuclear subs.
@@robertthomas3777 thought that was the reason the AWD's were getting Tomahawks..?
F-35 will have stealthy drop tanks available soon that could ease pressure on aerial refueling. They are designed to separate cleanly at the hardpoints, including the entire rail.
I think, the problem with RAAF is that it lacks long range strike aircrafts and air superiority fighters.
Sure, the Super Bugs and Lightning II were great, but they lack the range needed to deter an aggressive China.
Meanwhile, Australia's neighbour: Indonesia, is in the process of acquiring long range strike/air superiority fighter like the Eagle II. The KF-X/KF-21 Boromae can also act as an air superiority fighter thanks to MBDA Meteor.
Indonesian here, the Eagle II is definitely something we needed in our Air Force. Mainly due to how underarmed our Air Force is. The KF-21 is a bit of an issue doe, so long story short we're supposed to be paying about 20-30 percent of the development cost to South Korea but due to internal politics and issues, our government somehow decided if the Koreans want their money, they better give the technology too. This obviously, angered the Koreans which in turn have barred Indonesia from purchasing any KF-21 until we pay our share of the development cost (fyi: South Korea practically developed the KF-21 by themselves with minimum help from Indonesia, unsurprisingly ofc, the deal was made that Indonesia through helping to fund the KF-21 project will be able to purchase a 5th gen aircraft and KF-21 is no exclusive to South Korea and Indonesia). So yeah the KF-21 situation is a mess, and apparently after the whole damn thing happened our Defense ministry decided to just "Well fuck you" and purchased Rafales and Mirages LMAO.
We need the Aim-260 when it becomes operational.
I might go have a ghost bat right now after watching all that hot capability
Ha, I wasn't aware of the beer. Wouldn't mind one myself.
Exactly is that a loyal wingman in your pants or are you just happy to see me?
Australia should replace the 18 Super Hornets and 18 Growlers with 36 F-15EX Eagle II. They would have greater range, greater strike capability, more powerful hardware foundation for electronic warfare, and better drone support. The second seat could be used to directly control drones even in heavy electronic warfare situations. It would be an upgrade in capabilities across the board and a useful complement to the F-35.
Australia has also invested into upgrading Airbase Butterworth in Malaysia fairly recently and I remember hearing something about basing a squadron of f35's there, but I'm not %100 on that.
As agreeable to the idea of the B-21, I look at the potential cost and know that it's not going to happen. There would have to be 12 minimum preferably 14-16 which is an acquisition starting at 20 billion or more. Then there is the 30-40 years of operation which is tens of billions more.
Great video mate!
Thanks mate. Much appreciated.
Our aircraft are only as good as their basing and fuel supply, which are both lacking. There needs to be (imo) more investment in these “less flashy” capabilities, to ensure reliability and safety in logistics.
Not sure if all that many countries maintain fully kitted up bare bases for the same reason, are you suggesting 3 more?
And availability of ordinance for a prolonged conflict.
Hi Speed, Maneuverable, Fun to Fly War Planes.. We are An Island... The Pilots get what the Navy targets...
Spend the money on the RAN instead. A conventional supercarrier like the QE class with 72 F35B.
Don’t have the navy man power to operate it
@@markmacqueen9666
Each year there are on average 80,000 applicants to the ADF.
Only 8,000 are accepted.
We can expand the RAN significantly without negating standards.
I’m sure a QE class supercarrier will result in a flood of quality applicants to serve.
@@brettmitchell6431 to be honest I’ll join if I could be on a carrier
@@brettmitchell6431 It's the stupidest thing. The ADF wonders why they can't recruit many people after turning down thousands of people every year. I have many friends who have been turned down for such trivial reasons which matter little in a WAR where you have instant regret and wish we still had them. These are very smart people too.
In current circumstances I would feel a lot more comfortable if the RAAF had four squadrons of F15EX, say sixty aircraft. If necessary replacing the F18 Super Hornets.
In the Australian environment both the F35 and the Super Hornet are light weights with relatively low unrefuelled range, small payloads and sub M2 speed. The stealth attributes of the F35 is untested, personally I wouldn't count on it as a force multiplier.
The F15EX would address this having the necessary heft speed and range to be a significant player in the Australian theatre.
The RAAF also needs to have a much better developed and practiced dispersal strategy.
Drones as tankers reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft could be very good options for Australia.
Finally, the RAAF should go for Rapid Dragon if this gets the go ahead.
Only 11 F/A 18G left as one was lost to an engine fire (after a prolonged legal battle was not covered by warranty) in the US and has yet to be replaced due to the estimated 300 million dollar cost.
Half of the F models were pre-wired to enable conversation to G models, so it's possible that may happen when the the 2 F model squadrons convert to F35.
There are no plans for replacing the F/A 18Fs why would the 2 squadrons convert to F35?
It was replaced. And the Super Hornets will become Block 4 to extend life into the mid to late 2030s
Much better than Canada, my neighbor to the north. (Admittedly Canada sets a low bar on anything military related.)
To dependent on their neighbor.
Well we should be able to get any young kiwis who want to be fighter pilots so that should help air crew 17:02
And a few AC130 " Spookies", and we'll be right ✅
The F35 operational readiness is abysmal at only 50% for a new aircraft, also 32+ hours to change an engine is a major detriment to this aircraft unfortunately. The US is about to change engine providers to counter the maintenance , heat control and high fuel consumption of the P&W now in service.
Thanks for the info.
And don’t forget the American navy base stationed in papa New Guinea when it starts to built gurrantee a squadron or more of American fighter jets
Ether f-15 f-22 or f-35 aswell
Somehow forget the 33 BaE Hawk's 127 as combat rated?
Having the aircraft is fine, but we have bugger all fuel to keep them all operational. Not to mention we don’t have the home base industry to support them as well. We rely way too much on the US to do all the heavy lifting for us. Hopefully the Government will upgrade all our Super Hornets and Growlers to the newer block, and potentially buy some more. The F35B also with its greater capacity and range would also be a good upgrade. Oh well, we can wish.
No more F/A-18's for the RAAF. Boeing is winding down production and the USN is in desperate need to replace some of their own.
I believe there is already plans to upgrade the Super Hornets.
The biggest problem is maintaining a war stock of numerous types of munitions. Look at the problem with supplying Ukraine with what they need. It is depleting the West's reserve stocks and in the case of Oz, we have sent equipment that we sorely need.
@@crusher8017 I think that is why the ADF has being trying to use multi-service ammo.
I don't think we need our M113's, except for putting in a museum. @@crusher8017
F 117 which was the most advanced air frame during that time and only one in the world together with B 2 of course
10 ghost bats is a ridiculously small amount and costly. We should have 1 to 2 per F-35 and the same for the F/18 and growler. More you buy the cheaper it is, and they should be used for a fighter roll as the F-35 doesn't carry many weapons. This country always makes mistakes in the quantity of its air frames. The F-35 needs support drones to help with payload, and even the F/18 would benefit from this. I'm really surprised we only have 24 F/18 fighters as well. We have a massive landmass to protect and the Navy is way to small to have any effect on protection, we won't get our subs for 20 to 30 years, so Air Force needs to be larger. And we need a shit tone of long-range missiles as well. Things are getting heated with China and Russia, and with America's reputation for pulling out of wars and leaving countries behind, isn't a good sign for us. Hope our politicians wake up.
Give it time . only 10 Ghost Bats now and can build 1 a month, wait until the drone is fully operational and tests are finalised and will get more.
@nedkelly9688 Yeah, fair enough, I guess we will see. I hope you're right.
Unfortunately by the time we can afford anything, the wars that are starting now will be finished. And this means the Middle East losing its mind as it currently is. Include Europe and you can see that our efforts are too little, too late. The wars will be over with who knows what results? These days expediency is the key but this is not possible.
@crusher8017 couldn't agree more. I've been saying for a while now that we are too late in building up our military. The world has gone mad, and it's going to get so much worse in a short period of time. It's not looking good.
PC-21 not mentioned - for completeness.
what is the ratio of trained pilot to aircraft
Important question. Not disclosed, but far less than the ideal 3 per combat aircraft that is ideal.
@@Strategy_Analysis thanks, great channel
@@user-yt7go3ki9h Much appreciated.
RAAF needs to get its hands on at least 24 F15-EX...
Australia should acquire AIM 260 long range air to air missiles for its fighter aircraft as China already has an equivalent long range weapon. The AIM 120 variant we currently employ on those aircraft, by virtue of their short to medium range, leave those planes vulnerable ( unnecessary )
In order for the RAAF to both maintain and to grow our personnel, we must avoid the absurd hiring practices of the RAF.
B-21 raider?
I do mention it in the briefing. Not be procured in the foreseeable future.
We won't be building many MQ-28A Ghost Bats, we'll be lucky to see 12 to 24 enter service and they will more than likely replace our Super Hornets and Growlers.. The MQ-28A was built to export to allies, the yanks will enter the MQ-28A into service long before we do.. With our C-17 we can fit up to 4 Bushmasters in them for airlift, it all comes down to weight ryc 2 Bushmasters and palletised cargo or 4 bushmasters..
Is the F35 replacing the super hornets or supplementing them?
Supplementing. Or though its probably more accurate to say that the F/A-18F Super Hornets are supplementing the F-35s. So, the Super Hornets aren't going away any time soon. Long term solution for the RAAF.
All this is fine - but what is being done to protect these assets on the ground? These northern bases require a AA-AD system that can deal with everything from extreme long range to base drone defence. The bases require harderning and distribute key infrastructure across a larger area than current. What also wouldnt hurt is a sovereign capacity to refine POL in country rather than importing 90% of them as we do today. Long way to go yet...
And by the time we are "there" the wars currently escalating would be over and done with and who knows how bad the outcome will be with both of those wars.
If Australian fleet does not have long range capabilities, what would happen in the event of conflict in Taiwan? Would everyone move to Guam or Japan and leave the mainland undefended?
Just a heads up, your AGM-88 picture is a BAe ALARM.
Oops, thanks for that. I'll do a pin comment.
Does this include aircraft based at Butterworth?
Rotations from No. 92 Wing flying P8A Poseidons for maritime patrol is the only unit that's based partially in Butterworth, the rest are rotated in and out
Aircrew and we need to make are own missiles.
Indeed.
We are making our own missiles with USA help.
Going big in hypersonic sovereign missiles also.
Are a few Australian companies stepping up in missiles and rocket fuel manufacturing in Australia now.
Do we have any kind of missile defense system ?
NASAMS ?
@@amsuther The first NASAMS unit of six troops will be introduced over the next two-and-a-half years and by the middle of 2026, the Australian Army will be fully mission capable in its Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) role with the NASAMS, Lt Gen Stuart said.
@@nobodyhome8148 friend of mine has a daughter assigned to the introduction of it as an officer.
Helicopters?
In Australia, the helicopters belong to the Army and the Navy. None in the Air Force. An understandable question, most countries are different.
@@Strategy_Analysis When I was in the Army back in the 90's, our Iroquois helicopters were operated by 9 Squadron RAAF. They must have made the switch, some time after that.
@@wetcat833 Yes. The Iroquois were replaced by the Blackhawks and for a short time part of the RAAF before being transferred to the Army, which also received the CH-47 Chinooks.
@@wetcat833 They did the cahange because the RAAF was tired of operating helicopters. There was also the problem of communicating with RAAF from the ground when they were needed urgently. Different frequencies, SOP's, etc. So the Army finally received all of the rotary wing assets for use as Direct Command purposes. This was due to the different priorities the RAAF and Army had regarding helicopters.
Me again! Both the air bases at Curtain and western Cape York are basically emergency airstrips that lack ground staff, resources and sustainable fuel storage. Both require significant maintenance and upgrades to turn them into frontline or even secondary bases. However, this would appear unlikely due to this government's mismanagement and the adoption of any Realistic forward thinking defense policy. With the adoption of the current Strategic review, the government has a mindset based on selling out Australia. Conversely, the RAAF have lacked a long-range strike aircraft ever since the F111's were retired. The F35's lack the range to properly cover the Northern approaches - even with refueling. Mid air refueling puts both aircraft at risk and the potential loss of any air-tanker jeopardizes air operations in the north.
Should have upgraded the F111 and kept then
Absolutely not lmao.
The F111s were done. Airframes worn out, spares run out and costing a fortune to maintain. They had a good run but move on.
The Chinese J20 are accompanied by the supersonic Black Sword stealth Drone armed with the same weaponry as the J20, namely with the kinetically superior PL15s and PLXX AAMs. Furthermore, the 3D cheaply constructed J35 aircraft carrier launched Stealth Fighters augmented with the Multirole strike Fighter J15 being launched from the expected 6 Chinese Aircraft Carriers by 2030 three of the new Chinese Nuclear Aircraft Carriers are even larger and superior then the current Ford Class Supercarriers. Added the Type 094 and Type 096 SSBN armed with 12 JL3 SBLMs with up to 1 megaton per JL3, the Australian and AUKUS deterrence power projection is really a fizzer. As for Surface Naval vessels, the Type 055 Destroyers are superior than the American Arleigh Burke DDGs, each armed with superior Radar systems the Type 346 Radars which is equivalent to the AN/SPY 6 spectrum radars used by the latest Arleigh Burkes Block IV Vessels and the USS Kennedy Ford Class Aircraft Carrier. The Type 055 and the Type 052D are armed with the YJ18 anti ship sea skimming cruise missile and the lethal YJ 21 anti Ship hypersonic missiles launched from 112 VLS. The Ghost Bat is inferior to the Chinese Black Sword and it is easily undermined according to the schematic comparison. But, let us see by when AUKUS and China declare war very soon. My bet is on China and their JL3 nukes will certainly give Australia one hell of a schellacking!
50 cents has been deposited in your account shill
Exactly! congratulations, your social credit score just went up and there will be room for you at your local CCP office soon.
RAAF should buy another squadron of block 3 f18 they are not going to get the new us six gen aircraft for another 15 years
Let's cut the rubbish here. Of the F-35's we have, they typically operate at under 55% serviceability-- that's across the world fleet. So, if there's no parts, now, there definitely won't be any parts if a war breaks out. Further we have no access to coding or the rights to modify the aeroplane. Every time it flies it transmits its location to the the US. No sovereignty at all. Same with the super hornets though they are a more practical plane with better parts availability. The P-8 have NO survivability in the hostile air to our north. It is for similar circumstances the Russians built the Su 32. The P-8 can expect to be fully exposed to hostile fighters when operating in our northern airspace. Without fighter escorts they won't last long. Then there's the Globemasters which we have to fly back to the US for maintenance. Basically if we don't suck US cock we can't defend ourselves.
Australia should look into becoming a partner on project mayhem
Not sure the Yanks would be willing to share something that cutting edge.
B-21 5-7 of and a F35B 10-15 enough to change the game a little, and let anyone know the koala has teeth. Redeck the Canberras and get 1 more to have a proper rotation. That or replace the with those sexy south Korean numbers.
A few Wirraways wouldn't go astray
The mighty Wirraway.
Still amazed they let the "GhostBat" name through the 23 committees that it had to go through to name it that lol!
I like it.
@@Strategy_Analysis Yeah it's not a good name, look up the meaning of Ghost Bat in the urban dictionary.. They should of just left it as Loyal Wingman..
@@JPT-fz8wc "Ghost Bat - the only Australian bat that preys on large vertebrates - birds, reptiles and other mammals - which they detect using acute sight and hearing, combined with echolocation, while waiting in ambush at a perch. " I dunno..sounds pretty apt if you ask me.....
First time I saw your videos, your narration was very booming and echoey and that made it uncomfortable to listen to, otherwise very interesting content. Hope you can get your sound quality balanced a bit better in future videos. I really think that the Canberra class LHDs should be re-fitted to become "bat carriers" with a fleet of ghostbats providing the air cover that it sorely needs. In fact other countries are exploring the "drone carrier" concept including Turkiye. It makes sense fo have more and smaller carriers for countries without the ability to build super-carriers.
I think it's odd to call it the Royal Air Force when they don't have a monarchy.
History and tradition my man.
No different than here in Canada.
We still call the land the taxpayers own “crown” land.
We also call our Supreme Court the Crown as well, and lots more.
More 3rd rate equipment, seriously the ghost bat seems useless, IE sub sonic speeds, not able use weapons, so it can't even keep up with the already slow F35, the superhornets are barely 4th generation, then we also have only about 70 combat planes now take into account of not flyable status because of maintenance it be lucky to put 35 planes out for combat.
Hey strategic analysts.
Some navel gazing wouldnt go astray with the same pondered by your counterparts (recently) in all corners of the World.... whats more likely (and sooner rather than later) an Australian republic or Western Australian Independence from the Australian Commonwealth? Im sure if you ask around (the world) they may not choose to tell or help you.
Have we purchased the long range missiles??? Do we have capacity to manufacture weapons in Australia? Why is it that we had an Aircraft carrier with jets for offensive projection up until the 1980s with a population of around 15 million, yet now we have two LHDs that just have limp wristed helicopters with a population of 26 million. Why are we taking forever to make the type 26 frigates? Arafura class patrol ships so lightly armed? We need to get off our arse yesterday!
Mh-60R is not that bad mate, Canberra just needs to stop dragging their feet and upgrade them for the NSM missile which will give all our ships including surface combatants that additional forward deployed anti ship missile strike capability.. it's not as fancy as fixed wing strike although it's still a solid force projection strike capability, same as if we add STRIX UAS to our LHD's, it's all doable if Canberra puts the money into it while cutting the red tape that stalls everything.. Same as Canberra should be putting money into a AWAC tilt rotor aircraft to operate off our LHD's so we can target cruise missiles forward deployed outside of our ship radars and wedgetail radars, we could use them same AWAC tilt rotors to target for our submarines and ships against moving targets outside their targeting range and our ship and wedgetail radars ranges..
Arafura OPV is just a bad joke, Canberra flagged it as vessel that won;t deliver capabilities yet they continue to money into and build them then extend the RAN naval fleet review restructure decision till next year, it will be about 2 years they let the Arafura's continue to be built since they were flagged before they decide with the naval fleet review.. Meanwhile Lurssen offered a solution with the MMPV 90 Corvette which we could of upgraded the last 6 to 8 Arafura OPV to the MMPV 90 Corvettes and called it batch 2 of the Arafura OPV,.. Then give the 1st 6 lightly armed Arafura OPV to our ABFC fleet to operate alongside their Cape Class as our coastguard fleet.. The Canberra brains trust is useless when it comes to our countries defence and wasted time for the last year and half doing reviews instead of fixing problems when they already had solutions to do it..
2 Bushmasters in the C17? I've been inside the bastard when it carried 4 and 30 troops.
There is no question as to the quality of the Australian Airforce, but as for the quantity and types, yes - there is absolutely a problem.
Should there eventuate any major hostilities with another nation, we seriously lack numbers, particularly in fighter jets to cover such a vast Island continent, and due to that being the case, an inability to absorb any attrition rates that such conflict will guarantee.
Also the total lack of a deterrent factor, once possessed in the form of the F111 long range fighter bomber, is an invitation to probe our defences until a weakness can be exploited. The acquisition of the B21 stealth bomber would provide such a deterrent capability
possible to record in a room with no echo, plz?
I'd like to, but I'm "on the road". Unfortunately have to make do with the temporary accommodation I have. Soon be getting a new microphone.
@@Strategy_Analysis an excuse, then. :P
Agreed but content over presentation eh :)
@@kcharles8857 I offer no excuse, only explanations of the situation. Personally I hope the content is informative, while trying to make the product as good as possible. Much appreciated.
Find something real to complain about.