On August 6, 2024, key officials from the United States and Australia met in Annapolis, Maryland, for the 34th Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN). The annual talks highlighted significant advancements in military cooperation and strategic defense initiatives. Here’s a detailed look at what was discussed and decided.
Enhanced Military Cooperation
Co-Manufacturing Guided Weapons
Starting next year, Australia will join the U.S. in co-manufacturing guided missiles. This includes the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), which have been used in Ukraine. The goal is to boost the supply of these weapons for allies across the Indo-Pacific region. This move aims to strengthen the U.S.-Australia defense partnership and enhance regional security.
Increased U.S. Military Presence
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced plans to expand the rotational presence of U.S. forces in Australia. This will involve:
– More Aircraft Deployments: Expect an increase in the number of maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft stationed at bases across northern Australia. There will also be more frequent deployments of U.S. bomber aircraft.
– Base Upgrades: Australia and the U.S. are upgrading air bases in northern and Western Australia. These bases are strategically located closer to potential flashpoints in the South China Sea compared to Canberra.
Addressing Shared Security Challenges
Concerns Over China
During the AUSMIN talks, Austin and his counterparts addressed shared security challenges, including concerns about China. The joint statement from the meeting highlighted several key issues:
– Chinese Military Activity: The statement expressed concern over China’s military activities around Taiwan and its extensive maritime claims in the South China Sea.
– Dangerous Behaviour: Both nations voiced serious concerns about China’s aggressive actions towards Philippine vessels operating within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
Strategic Partnerships and Exercises
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles emphasised that the U.S. military presence in Australia contributes to regional deterrence. He highlighted the benefits of closer collaboration on guided weapons and military exercises:
– Guided Missiles and Hypersonics: Australia is also testing the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) with the U.S. This missile may become Australia’s first hypersonic weapon for fighter jets.
– Joint Exercises: Japan will increase its exercises with U.S. Marines stationed in Darwin, Australia. Additionally, the U.S. and Australia will conduct regular military exercises in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
Strategic Infrastructure Enhancements
Upgrades to Cocos Islands
The AUSMIN statement for the first time mentioned Australia’s strategic Indian Ocean territory, the Cocos Islands. The U.S. supports Australia’s planned infrastructure upgrades on the islands, which are crucial for maritime surveillance operations. Key points include:
– Expanded Airfield: Australia plans to expand the airfield on the Cocos Islands to accommodate heavier military aircraft, such as the P-8A Poseidon, which is used for submarine hunting.
– Regional Importance: The Cocos Islands, located 3,000 km west of Australia’s mainland, are vital for monitoring the increasing submarine activity in the Indian Ocean, particularly by China.
Supporting Regional Allies
Strengthening Ties with the Philippines
The AUSMIN talks underscored strong support for the Philippines. The joint statement highlighted the importance of U.S.-Australian collaboration in supporting Manila against regional threats. Australian Strategic Policy Institute executive director Justin Bassi noted that the clarity on the threat from Beijing and the support for the Philippines is essential for Manila’s security.
Looking Forward
The AUSMIN talks represent a significant step in strengthening the U.S.-Australia defense alliance. The agreements on co-manufacturing guided weapons, increasing military presence, and upgrading strategic infrastructure will enhance both nations’ ability to respond to regional threats. The ongoing cooperation reflects a commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.