Post Election Wash-Up

In his latest article for Defence Technology Review, Security & Defence PLuS Executive Director Dr Ian Langford provides a post-election analysis of Australia’s defence posture under a re-elected Albanese Government. Dr Langford outlines the continuity in defence policy, including commitments to AUKUS and long-range strike capabilities, while warning that:

“the elephant in the room remains the AUKUS submarine program’s gargantuan cost”.

He notes that cost pressures “will place enormous strain on the defence budget”, with critical capability projects potentially facing “deferral or cancellation”.

The article highlights continued investment in guided weapons, including plans for domestic production of key systems like Naval Strike Missiles and HIMARS by 2027. It also points to growing regional engagement through ‘strategic hedging’, with expanded defence cooperation and a more active presence across Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Concluding the piece, Dr Langford emphasises that:

“Canberra must act urgently… Australia cannot afford to wait another legislative term before confronting the challenges ahead.”

Read the full piece on Defence Technology Review or access the PDF: Post Election Wash-Up.