Beyond the F-35: Upgrading Australia’s fighter fleet

 The federal government has quietly committed to extending the futures of the Super Hornet and Growler. But with our rivals catching up fast, what are Australia’s options for eventual fleet renewal?

As nations continue to develop and deploy increasingly sophisticated military technologies, control of the skies remains a critical component of national defence and strategic dominance. Air superiority aircraft, or air dominance aircraft as they have become known, are equipped with advanced avionics, stealth capabilities, and cutting-edge weaponry, serving as pivotal assets in ensuring that a nation’s airspace is protected from both traditional and emerging threats.

The geopolitical environment of the 21st century is marked by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, and unmanned aerial systems, which necessitate a new generation of fighter aircraft that can seamlessly integrate these technologies. These aircraft must not only outperform adversaries in terms of speed, manoeuvrability, and firepower but also possess the ability to operate in highly contested environments where electronic warfare and anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) systems are prevalent.

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