Part 4/8:
Australia’s maritime environment is pivotal to its economy, with sea lanes valued at around $900 billion annually. The maintenance of these routes is vital, as more than 15 undersea cables essential for global connectivity pass through Australian waters, generating approximately $1.5 trillion per year—about 85% of the nation’s economic activity.
Recognizing this strategic importance, Australia is eager to modernize its navy by acquiring American Virginia-class attack submarines—up to three of them. These vessels are significantly larger and more technologically advanced than Australia’s current Collins-class submarines. They can host 12 long-range missiles, providing the capacity to neutralize threats by targeting air defenses preemptively.