A capable sovereign submarine capability is a core requirement for Australia’s defence over the next two decades, and there are known risks that could prevent that happening. This report proposes that Australia should explore the backup option of leasing or acquiring advanced conventional submarine capability from Japan.

This report analyses how Australia can translate its strategic focus on the north into operational capability and sustained defence outcomes. It argues for treating the north as an integrated operating system capable of generating, sustaining and scaling combat power. The report highlights key constraints and the need for stronger alignment across defence, government and industry.

A curated selection of analysis exploring the growing strategic importance of critical minerals, supply chains and industrial capability. A central theme is the role of northern Australia, particularly Darwin, as a strategic platform where energy, infrastructure, logistics and defence posture converge. It examines how Australia and its partners can move from systemic exposure to enduring...

The development of Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) – such as high energy laser and high-power microwave weapons – offers the Australian Defence Force a future solution to countering the growing threat of drones, but also missile threats. This explainer explores the nature of DEW and considers what steps Australia is taking in this field.

A compendium of analytical perspectives examining why the preservation of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait is so critical to Indo-Pacific peace and prosperity. The essays explore Taiwan’s economic centrality, its democratic identity and the strategic dynamics that shape its future. They also provide a framework for thinking about deterrence, resilience and preparedness.