Show Notes: Episode 22: Royal Australian Navy fires Tomahawk and a round up of the week in maritime security

In this final episode of 2024, Jennifer Parker (https://www.jennifer-parker.com.au/) and Richard Dunley (https://www.unsw.edu.au/staff/richard...) wrap up the year in maritime affairs, reflecting on key issues and trends that shaped the domain. The series, which launched in April, has become a platform for thoughtful discussions on maritime strategy, security, and capability.

Episode Highlights

Topic 1: What’s Happening in the Region?

1. Scarborough Shoal Incident (Dec 4):
o Escalating tensions in the South China Sea as Chinese Coast Guard vessels confront Philippine patrols.
o Diplomatic protests from the Philippines signal a continued pushback against Beijing’s aggressive actions.
o More details.

2. Russian Submarine in the South China Sea:
o A Russian Kilo-class submarine, Ufa, transits near Philippine waters.
o Read more.
3. US, Japan, and Philippine Joint Patrols:
o Allied forces conduct coordinated patrols to assert freedom of navigation near Scarborough Shoal.

4. Taiwan Strait Tensions:
o Increased Chinese naval and air force activity in response to political developments in Taiwan.

Topic 2: Capability Updates

• Tomahawk Milestone:
o Australia successfully test-fires its first Tomahawk missile, signalling a leap in long-range strike capability.
o Details.

• Missile Manufacturing in Australia:
o Construction begins on a new cruise missile plant in Newcastle, boosting domestic production capacity.

• Land-Based Maritime Strike:
o The Australian Army progresses plans for coastal defence capabilities, with HIMARS and NSM under consideration.

Did You Know?
• This week’s segment explores definitions of long-range strike.

Links and Resources
• Jen’s recent publications:
o Time for an Australian Coastguard (https://navalinstitute.com.au/time-for-an-australian-coast-guard/)
o Export Control Shifts: Unlocking the Potential of AUKUS Collaboration (https://www.ecag.com.au/ecagnavigatordec2024)
o China's Push for Closer Defence Ties Is Unrealistic Without Behaviour Change (https://www.afr.com/policy/foreign-affairs/no-ambassador-we-are-not-ready-to-get-tight-with-china-on-defence-20241121-p5ksl3)

• Missile range classification:
o https://www.armscontrol.org/factsheets/worldwide-ballistic-missile-inventories#:~:text=Medium%2Drange%20ballistic%20missiles%2C%20traveling,traveling%20more%20than%205%2C500%20kilometers.
Join us in 2025 as we continue to explore the ever-changing world of maritime strategy and security!