The Australian government is set to enhance its military capabilities with a substantial investment of 2.12 billion Australian dollars (approximately $1.39 billion) aimed at acquiring advanced variants of the AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles. This decision follows a significant approval from the US State Department in April, which permitted the sale of up to 200 units each of the AIM-120C and AIM-120D missile variants to Australia.
The AIM-120D-3 variant will be integrated into the country’s F/A-18F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, and F-35A Lightning II aircraft, providing enhanced air defense and aerial strike capabilities. Meanwhile, the AIM-120C-8 missiles are designated for use with the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS), which is currently being inducted into the Australian Army’s new 10th Brigade to strengthen the nation’s short-to-medium-range air defense.
These missile acquisitions will be executed through the US government’s Foreign Military Sales Program, reinforcing the long-standing defense partnership between the two nations. Pat Conroy, the Australian Minister for Defence Industry, emphasized that this investment is a vital step in ensuring the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has the necessary resources to ensure national security. He stated that the ADF’s credible strike and long-range capabilities are critical to Australia’s strategy of conflict deterrence, aimed at preventing potential threats before they escalate.
The AIM-120D-3 is a remarkable advancement in missile technology, boasting a range of 160 kilometers (99 miles). As a successor to the AIM-120D, the D-3 includes significant hardware and software enhancements designed to improve its performance and extend its operational range. This acquisition is a part of Australia’s broader strategy to amplify defense spending in light of rising military capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly concerning China.
In addition to the new missiles, Australia has also committed to a $2-billion sustainment package for its F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft. Last year, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made a substantial pledge of 74 billion Australian dollars ($47 billion) aimed at bolstering the nation’s defense capabilities, which includes an allocation of $21 billion ($14 billion) to establish a Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise within Australia.
This comprehensive investment strategy marks a significant transformation in the Australian military landscape and highlights the government’s proactive stance in addressing emerging security challenges.
