7am cover image

7am

China, Australia and the warships off our coast

Mar 20, 2025
Sam Roggeveen, the Director of the Lowy Institute's International Security Program, discusses the recent maneuvers of Chinese military ships near Australia. He analyzes whether these actions indicate aggression or a defensive posture and the implications for Australia's security. Roggeveen proposes an 'echidna strategy,' emphasizing the need for Australia to enhance its own defense capabilities amid shifting U.S. commitments. He also critiques the current defense focus, highlighting the importance of advanced missile systems and base protection.
15:09

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The recent presence of Chinese military ships near Australia has provoked concerns about regional security and reliance on U.S. defense support.
  • Australia's defense strategy is shifting toward independent capabilities, emphasizing anti-ship and air defenses to deter potential threats from China.

Deep dives

Chinese Naval Activities Near Australia

The presence of a Chinese naval flotilla off the coast of Australia has raised concerns regarding regional security. This flotilla consisted of a large destroyer, a frigate, and a supply ship, demonstrating China’s naval capabilities. Although these activities were conducted in international waters and were not illegal, they were perceived as provocative, particularly when live fire drills disrupted flights in Sydney. Observers note that while such naval maneuvers are routine in other regions like Taiwan or Japan, this is novel for Australia, prompting extensive media coverage and public concern.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode