Senate debates

Thursday, 22 June 2017

Questions without Notice

Defence

2:42 pm

Photo of Marise PayneMarise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

As the white paper said, we are determined to create a more potent, agile and capable Defence Force and to deliver on the investment and capability that Senator Fawcett has referred to. That includes our new satellite capabilities, new night-fighting equipment and further investments in electronic warfare, to name just a few things. Last November the Royal Australian Air Force took possession of the first P-8 Poseidon aircraft—a cutting-edge surveillance anti-submarine aircraft—and the first EA-18 Growler electronic attack aircraft are now also in service. With the joint strike fighters, which made their first visit to Australia in March, they will create a powerful, cutting-edge fifth-generation Air Force. Last week, Navy took provisional acceptance of the first air warfare destroyer, which will significantly enhance the capability of the Navy—and I have already spoken about the projects in relation to the Future Submarines, the Future Frigates and the offshore patrol vessel. We are working on this with absolute focus to ensure we create the ADF capability that we need. (Time expired)

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