WEBCAST

Modernisation the focus – ADF adapts to a changing battlespace

Description

The release of the 2024 Integrated Investment Program (IIP) and Defence Strategic Review (DSR) made clear that capability modernisation, rather than wholesale platform replacement, will be critical to ensuring the ADF remains ready in a rapidly changing strategic environment.

With platform replacement often costly and decades in the making, the ADF is turning to targeted upgrades that extend the life of existing fleets, improve interoperability with allies, and deliver faster, more economical capability gains.

Key priorities include:

• Cost-effective upgrades to extend the relevance of platforms such as Anzac-class frigates, Abrams tanks and P-8A Poseidons.
• Rapid adaptation through modular and open systems to respond to emerging threats such as hypersonics and counter-uncrewed systems.
• Bridging to future tech, ensuring Australia is ready to integrate autonomous systems, AI and long-range strike.
• Interoperability with allies, reinforcing commitments under AUKUS and regional security partnerships.
• Creating operational testbeds for trialling advanced capabilities before large-scale adoption, reducing risk and accelerating innovation.

The government has already signalled this shift through Anzac frigate combat system upgrades, Collins-class submarine life-of-type extensions, and accelerated investment in integrated air and missile defence.

By prioritising modernisation, Defence aims to strengthen deterrence, preserve readiness, and buy critical time as next-generation systems are developed to meet the demands of an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific.