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The year 2024 was big for Australia’s Defence and national security debate and defence industry. In this top five, we will cover the most popular land domain stories of the year.
The Australian 2023 Defence Strategic Review, 2024 National Defence Strategy, and 2024 Integrated Investment Program mark a significant turning point in the evolution of the Australian Army, as they reshape the nation's defence posture in response to a rapidly changing global security landscape.
The 2023 Defence Strategic Review underscores the increasing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly the rise of assertive powers like China, necessitating a reorientation of Australia's defence priorities. It calls for greater agility, enhanced force projection, and more emphasis on regional security partnerships.
The 2024 National Defence Strategy builds on these insights, focusing on strengthening Australia’s deterrence capabilities and expanding its defence engagement with key allies, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The strategy outlines a vision for a more technologically advanced and interoperable Army that can operate seamlessly in a joint-force environment.
A central theme is the Army's role in shaping the future of Australia's defence by modernising its command structures, personnel, and equipment, with an emphasis on littoral operations and a "strategy of denial" ensuring it is capable of responding to emerging threats while safeguarding Australia's national interests.
Finally, the 2024 Integrated Investment Program outlines the funding and procurement framework to support these strategic goals, with substantial investments in cutting-edge technologies, mobility, and intelligence capabilities.
These interconnected documents set the stage for a more resilient, adaptive, and globally engaged Australian Army, ready to meet the complex challenges of the future while maintaining a pivotal role for Army in a strong national defence.
1. Bushmaster in review: Ukrainian troops credit effective Australian armour
Ukrainian troops have praised the effectiveness of the Australian-made Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) in their operations against Russian forces. These vehicles, equipped with advanced features like thermal vision systems and remote weapon stations, have provided critical protection and mobility for Ukrainian forces, allowing them to carry more troops swiftly into battle.
The Bushmaster’s high seating position, comfort, and durability, even in extreme conditions, have been highlighted by the troops. Since the onset of the war, Australia has sent over 120 Bushmasters to support Ukraine's defence efforts against the Russian invasion.
2. Defence spending must be brought forward to ‘tear the arm off any adversary’, Hastie says
The article discusses the Australian Defence Force’s strategic focus on enhancing its capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, emphasising the need for a more agile and technologically advanced force.
It highlights the Army's commitment to modernising its equipment and training to effectively respond to emerging threats and maintain regional stability. The piece also underscores the importance of international partnerships and joint operations in achieving these objectives.
Drawing on his experience, Mr Hastie focuses on enhancing Australia's defence capabilities with an emphasis on “tearing an arm off any adversary”, with priorities including a rapid acceleration of key, tactical and strategic capabilities as well as significant reform, particularly in the areas of defence industry and procurement.
Mr Hastie draws on his background in the Australian Army's Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) which provides him with valuable insights into defence operations and the strategic needs of Australia as the nation's geopolitical position continues to deteriorate.
The Australian government announced a competition between the Lockheed Martin HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) and the Thales Australia/Kongsberg Defence Australia-designed and built Strikemaster for its Long Range Fires Regiment, aimed at strengthening defence in northern Australia.
This decision will enhance Australia's ability to counter advanced threats and ensure defence readiness in the region and builds on the country’s existing order of up to 42 HIMARS across two separate orders.
The HIMARS system offers precision strike capabilities, while the Strikemaster focuses on cost-effectiveness and rapid deployment. This selection process is critical for Australia's evolving defence strategy, ensuring greater flexibility and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, while also supporting the Army's broader shift towards a "littoral" focused force.
4. Construction begins on AS9 Huntsman and AS10 resupply vehicle in South Korea
Construction has begun on the Australian Army’s future AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzer and AS10 resupply vehicle in South Korea. These vehicles are a significant part of Australia’s defence modernisation, enhancing the Army’s firepower and logistical support capabilities.
The AS9 Huntsman is designed for mobility, firepower, and protection, while the AS10 resupply vehicle will ensure sustained operations in the field.
The partnership with South Korean defence companies underscores Australia’s commitment to strengthening its defence industry and improving military readiness for future threats. The vehicles are set to improve the Army's operational effectiveness, and will provide the Army with a much needed mobile, long-range protected fires capability to complement the acquisition of Army’s HIMARS fleet.
5. Australia confirms 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks will be gifted to Ukraine
Australia has committed to gifting 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, enhancing the country's armoured defence against Russian forces. This move follows Australia's broader strategy to provide military aid to Ukraine, aiming to bolster its combat effectiveness.
The tanks will be drawn from Australia’s existing stock, with training and logistical support for Ukrainian crews. This gesture reinforces Australia’s support for Ukraine and its role in countering Russian aggression.
Get involved with the discussion and let us know your thoughts on Australia’s future role and position in the Indo-Pacific region and what you would like to see from Australia’s political leaders in terms of partisan and bipartisan agenda setting in the comments section below, or get in touch at
