The Australian government is considering building a new missile system to protect regions in the north of the country amid increased Chinese activity in the Asia-Pacific region, local media reported, citing the Ministry of Defense.
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The new missile system, which the government of Anthony Albanese is considering for acquisition, could protect much of the country’s north from enemy ships.
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The government, among other things, is considering the Australian StrikeMaster system. It includes a twin Naval Strike Missile (NSM) launcher with a range of 250 kilometers and Bushmaster armored personnel carriers.
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Potentially, the missile system can deter Chinese ships that have chosen a course through the Timor and Arafura seas and the Torres Strait.
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According to local media reports, this initiative complements the aspirations of Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles to strengthen the country’s forces.
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“We must invest in capabilities that will enable us to target the forces of potential enemies,” Marles said in a speech in November.