Australia relies on the Collins class submarines as a core element of its maritime defence capability. A Life of Type Extension (LOTE) is required to maintain submarine capability and availability until Australia transitions to a future nuclear‑powered submarine fleet under AUKUS. This audit reviews the effectiveness of planning and implementation of the LOTE project to...

A capable sovereign submarine capability is a core requirement for Australia’s defence over the next two decades, and there are known risks that could prevent that happening. This report proposes that Australia should explore the backup option of leasing or acquiring advanced conventional submarine capability from Japan.

The strategy focuses on strengthening Australia’s capacity to protect and defend Australia and its national interests within an increasingly contested and uncertain environment. It builds on the foundations of the inaugural 2024 strategy by increasing efforts to develop greater self-reliance, prioritising capability acquisition, improving national civil preparedness and resilience, and increasing coordination with regional partners.

The development of Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) – such as high energy laser and high-power microwave weapons – offers the Australian Defence Force a future solution to countering the growing threat of drones, but also missile threats. This explainer explores the nature of DEW and considers what steps Australia is taking in this field.

This report notes the Australian Defence Force (ADF) can strengthen defence, deter adversaries and expand capability by adopting robotic and autonomous systems with artificial intelligence (RAS‑AI). RAS‑AI is identified as offering a faster and more cost‑effective means of building resilience, operational effectiveness and strategic advantage in increasingly contested environments.