Australia Planning A$36B-A$44B Investment into Landing Craft, HIMARS, Helicopters

Australia’s defense ministry is planning to invest between A$36-44 billion in acquiring landing craft, HIMARS missile systems, and helicopters for its military.

This spending will enable the Army to impede a potential adversary's freedom of action, aligning with the goals outlined in the National Defense Strategy released on April 17.

Direct investments in the amphibious-capable combined-arms land system total between $36 billion and $44 billion. Additional investments include approximately $3.9 billion to $4.9 billion for land-based strike, about $5.2 billion to $7.2 billion for land command systems, and over $9 billion for the Army’s estate and infrastructure.

The funding will optimize the Army for littoral maneuvers in Australia’s northern approaches and involve the development of long-range land and maritime strike systems.

An allocation of $7 billion to $10 billion will be designated for 18 medium and eight heavy landing craft to be stationed in southeast Queensland, north Queensland, and Darwin, with an additional $5 billion to $7 billion earmarked for supporting infrastructure. The landing craft will be constructed in Australia and delivered between 2026 and 2037.

Land-based strike funding encompasses the expedited acquisition of 42 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems equipped with precision strike and guided multiple launch munitions. Following the establishment of the first long-range fires regiment, missile stockpiles will progressively expand.

Investment also encompasses new land-based radar networks to enhance Defense's ability to detect and track approaching threats.

In battlefield aviation, $9 billion to $10 billion will be allocated for 40 UH-60M Black Hawks, 29 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, and an expanded fleet of 14 CH-47F Chinooks.

The Integrated Investment Program solidifies funding for previously announced acquisitions such as the Redback infantry fighting vehicle, M1A2 Abrams main battle tank, and Huntsman self-propelled howitzer.

Between $1.6 billion and $2.1 billion is designated to modernize special operations capability, facilitating continued reconnaissance, targeting, strike, technical operations, and enhanced engagement.

The restructuring of the Army's divisions, commands, and formations commenced in 2023. The new structure includes specialized combat and support brigades, as well as a new dedicated fires brigade and littoral maneuver group.