A Growing Alliance Against Common Threats
The United States and Australia have deepened their defense collaboration to counter growing challenges in the Indo-Pacific. This partnership has led to unprecedented investments, such as enhanced military bases, prepositioned stockpiles, and increased U.S. force rotations in Australia. However, despite these advancements, both nations face strategic hurdles that require cohesive action to counter China’s ambitions effectively.
Expanding U.S. Presence in Australia
The U.S. has significantly boosted its presence in Australia, making the nation a southern hub for long-range operations. Investments include building space radars, storing critical fuel supplies, and upgrading airfields to support advanced aircraft. Rotations of U.S. submarines have also increased, signaling a clear focus on the Indo-Pacific.
Yet, challenges remain. Australia’s 2024 National Defence Strategy (NDS) emphasizes a denial approach, focusing on protecting its immediate territories rather than aligning fully with U.S. strategies. This discrepancy highlights a need for synchronized defense policies to maximize the alliance’s effectiveness.
Shared Challenges in Pacific Waters
Australia and the U.S. face a shared interest in protecting key sea lanes in the Southwest Pacific. These waters are vital for communication and supply routes between Hawaii, Australia, and U.S. bases in Guam and Palau. China’s growing military presence in these areas raises security concerns, especially with potential threats near Solomon Islands, a historically significant location during World War II.
Australia’s focus on littoral operations complements U.S. interests in safeguarding these waters. But effective cooperation requires a clear strategy for joint operations, including force protection for convoys and coordinated responses to potential threats.
Defending Against Long-Range Threats
China’s advancements in bomber capabilities and guided missile submarines pose a direct threat to both U.S. and Australian territories. These weapons could target ports and infrastructure far from conflict zones, including the West Coast of the U.S. and southern regions.
Australia’s defense policies currently prioritize northern approaches, leaving its southern regions vulnerable. Building capabilities for homeland defense, such as fighter squadrons and air defense systems, is essential. The U.S. and Australia must collaborate to address this gap and enhance security for critical Pacific infrastructure.
Engaging Europe in Indo-Pacific Security
European nations are increasingly showing interest in Indo-Pacific security, participating in regional military exercises with significant deployments. While their direct military power in the region is limited, European countries can provide economic and logistical support.
Creating an air bridge between Europe and Australia, using allied bases and tanker aircraft, could strengthen crisis management efforts. By involving the United Kingdom and European Union member states, the U.S. can expand multilateral deterrence and build a broader coalition against potential threats.
Developing Graduated Response Plans (GRP)
To tackle these challenges, both nations should adopt Graduated Response Plans (GRP), similar to NATO’s post-2014 approach. GRPs help identify decision points and prepare for crises without delving into politically sensitive war strategies.
These plans would ensure seamless coordination between the forces, streamline force movements, and set the stage for effective multilateral deterrence. They would also provide clarity on joint operations, addressing gaps in strategic alignment.
Measuring Success Beyond Investments
Strengthening the U.S.-Australia defense alliance is critical for ensuring security in the Indo-Pacific. Success should not only be measured by the scale of U.S. activity in Australia but also by the cohesion of their strategies and contributions from third-party nations.
The alignment of defense efforts between the two allies can set a foundation for multilateral deterrence. By addressing strategic gaps and fostering greater collaboration, the U.S. and Australia can build a resilient partnership capable of countering evolving threats in the region. With shared vision and pragmatic steps, the next phase of their cooperation holds the promise of a stronger and more unified alliance.