Australia has announced a significant $7 billion investment in air and missile defense systems through a new agreement with the United States, aimed at enhancing its defense capabilities amid rising global tensions.

The deal, disclosed by Defence Industry Minister Patrick Conroy in Washington DC, includes the acquisition of hundreds of SM-2 IIIC and SM-6 missiles, which can be launched from both land and naval platforms.

This strategic move comes in response to escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly following China's recent test-firing of an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean.

Conroy emphasized the necessity of this investment, stating that Australia is facing the most complex geo-strategic environment since World War II, and these missiles will serve as a deterrent to potential adversaries.

Defence Minister Richard Marles articulated the need for Australia to become heavily armed to deter potential threats, referring to the strategy as making Australia a 'porcupine island'.

He noted that purchasing these 'world-leading, high-tech missiles' demonstrates the government's commitment to defending Australia's national interests.

Marles further stated that the deal reflects the government's efforts to expedite the acquisition of critical capabilities for the Australian Defence Force and enhance the lethality of the navy's surface combatant fleet.

The advanced air and missile defense weapons will be deployed on Australia's Hobart-class destroyers and planned Hunter-class frigates.

The SM-2 IIIC missiles have a range of 160 kilometers, while the SM-6 missiles can reach up to 370 kilometers and were tested on Australia's naval fleet last year.

In addition to the missile acquisition, Australia plans to produce its long-range strike missiles in partnership with Norwegian defense firm Kongsberg, expected to begin within three years, featuring a range exceeding 275 kilometers.

This acquisition builds on the prior use of earlier SM-6 versions by Australian defense forces over the past decade, with plans for the current purchase initiated after receiving initial approval from the U.S. State Department in 2021.

Australia was the first country besides the United States to successfully fire the SM-6 missile, showcasing the strength of the U.S.-Australia alliance.