Jennifer Parker, an expert associate at the National Security College and former Navy officer, delves into pressing issues facing Australia's naval force structure. She examines the recent debate over small missile boats versus larger warships, reflecting on military trends and national security needs. The conversation turns to China's activities near Sydney and the broader Indo-Pacific tensions, highlighting the pressure on the Royal Australian Navy to secure vital sea lines. Parker also critiques budget constraints while advocating for a balanced approach to enhancing naval capabilities.

Jennifer Parker, an expert associate at the National Security College ANU and former Royal Australian Navy officer, dives deep into the AUKUS initiative. She discusses the ambitious plans for Australia to develop nuclear submarines, tackling the daunting financial and workforce issues involved. With costs projected between $53 to $63 billion, the talk highlights the training needs and political will required for success. They also explore the technological leaps this program promises, including stealth capabilities and future innovations like hypersonic missiles.