Australia needs AUKUS contingency: Paterson
Shadow defence minister James Paterson is urging the Australian government to develop a contingency plan for the AUKUS security pact, emphasizing the need for long-range bomber aircraft to safeguard national security. He warned that delays or changes in US policy could leave Australia vulnerable. Paterson called for greater strategic independence and investment in military capabilities. The comments highlight growing scrutiny over Australia’s defence planning amid evolving geopolitical risks.
- ▪James Paterson is the Liberal Party's shadow defence minister.
- ▪He argues Australia must prepare for potential disruptions to the AUKUS agreement.
- ▪Paterson specifically recommends acquiring long-range bomber aircraft.
- ▪His remarks reflect concerns about overreliance on the United States for defence.
- ▪AUKUS is a trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Full article excerpt tap to expand
{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@id":"https://www.smh.com.au/politics","name":"Politics"},"position":1},{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@id":"https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal","name":"Federal"},"position":2},{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@id":"https://www.smh.com.au/topic/aukus-1nty","name":"AUKUS"},"position":3}]}AdvertisementPoliticsFederalAUKUSAustralia needs AUKUS contingency: PatersonShadow defence minister James Paterson wants Australia to consider long-range bomber aircraft to ensure the country is not left exposed.Updated April 28, 2026 — 3:34pm,first published 3:28pmSaveYou have reached your maximum number of saved items.Remove items from your saved list to add more.ShareAAALoadingLatest in VideosVideo icon2:37Luai PNG move not expected to rattle TigersVideo icon1:55Social media giants could be forced to pay for news under media bargaining code draftVideo icon2:20Man accused of Trump assassination attempt could face life behind barsVideo icon1:27Sydney public transport set for $820m transformationAdvertisement
This excerpt is published under fair use for community discussion. Read the full article at The Sydney Morning Herald.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Sydney Morning Herald
