The Grumpy Strategists Oh dear, what have you done to my fleet!? & Is Australia now bandwagoning AND free-riding??
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Jul 15, 2025 A shocking audit reveals systemic failures in the Navy's operations and the questionable stewardship of nuclear subs. While Australia celebrates a new but minor patrol vessel after eight years of shipbuilding, the Army makes strides with HIMARS in military exercises. The hosts dissect Australia's complicated foreign policy amid rising Chinese influence, addressing both bandwagoning and free-riding concerns. They also explore the tangled web of military procurement challenges and the urgent need for accountability in defense initiatives.
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Alaskan Polar Bear Encounter
- Marcus Hellyer shares a close encounter with a polar bear during an Alaskan research trip.
- The experience gave him a fresh perspective, though familiar defense issues remained upon return.
Naval Shipbuilding's Slow Progress
- Continuous naval shipbuilding started eight years ago with $10-12 billion spent but produced only one patrol vessel.
- This long delay reveals systemic issues despite the initial strategic vision from 2009.
Navy Lacks Capability for Maintenance
- The Navy lacks funds and competence to maintain even simple commercial off-the-shelf surface ships.
- This raises doubts about their readiness to operate nuclear-powered submarines as claimed.