By Robbin Laird China has expanded its maritime reach as it modernizes its navy and air force. And has done so through a “buy in strategy” but one that is challenged as well with its approach to “gray zone operations” in the region as well. In a recent article by…
The Australian Air Force conducted the second biennial Air Warfare Instructor Course in 2019 (AWIC19), a six-month course integrating warfighting functions across a range of specializations. The second of these practical exercises, Exercise DIAMOND SHIELD (DSD19), will operate RAAF and foreign force aircraft from RAAF Base Amberley, RAAF Base Williamtown…
On 28 March the Minister for Defence Senator the Hon. Christopher Pyne, MP, announced Chief of Joint Operations Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld, AO, DSC, would replace Air Marshal Leo Davies, AO, CSC, as Chief of Air Force from 4 July 2019.Major General Greg Bilton, AM, CSC, will assume the position…
While the EU puts together an initial response to the challenge of Chinese investments and infrastructure ownership in Europe, Italy and France this week signaled sovereign decisions to shape their own approaches within the evolving context. Two articles in the EUObserver published this week provide insights into the priorities of…
The Australian Defence Force is assisting the Northern Territory Government to evacuate remote communities in the path of Tropical Cyclone Trevor. Defence support was requested on Wednesday 20 March by the Northern Territory Government through Emergency Management Australia and close coordination between the agencies continues. A Joint Task Force of…
The role of the US warfighting centers at Nelllis, Fallon and Yuma MCAS have become increasingly significant as the US and the allies shape a new appraoch to Warfighting — the kill web. The recent RAND report on the US dealing with adversary forces continues their long tradition of taking…
U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortresses are conducting training flights in the vicinity of the Baltic Sea as a clear and visible demonstration of U.S. commitment to regional security. These missions have been closely coordinated with the governments of neighboring countries. The strategic bombers, part of the Bomber Task Force currently…
By Robbin Laird My visits to the UK and Australia over the past five years indicate growing working relationships between the two air forces but also that the significant rethink in Australia about shaping a fifth-generation combat force has clearly had its impact and resonance in the United Kingdom as…
