Australia's northern bases may be a 'juicy target' but the US is showing interest

Near Katherine in Australia's Northern Territory, 7.30 has reported on a newly constructed bomb shelter at RAAF Base Tindal. This base houses some of Australia's most advanced fighter jets, including the F-35, and new ultra-long range Triton surveillance drones. Wing-Commander Alex Smith stated that Tindal is at the forward edge of Australian security, serving as a high-value target for potential adversaries.

He explained that if Australia were removed from the fight, it would significantly diminish the country's overall capability. This strategic importance has led to discussions about further expanding the US military presence in northern Australia. The US government has previously sought proposals to build jet fuel depots at RAAF Curtin, RAAF Learmonth, and RAAF Amberley, capable of storing up to one million barrels of fuel in total.

Defence Minister Richard Marles emphasized that any additions to these bases would be beneficial for both the US and Australia. The US has already invested in infrastructure at RAAF Darwin and RAAF Tindal, including new parking aprons and facilities to accommodate long-range bombers. While there is no permanent US presence in the region, Colonel George Flynn, the Commanding Office of Marine Rotational Force Darwin, noted that the presence of Marines in Darwin remains open to interpretation by any country, including China.

Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, the chief of the Royal Australian Air Force, stated that American investment serves as a strong deterrent against potential adversaries, reinforcing Australia's close alliance with the US. Exercise Pitch Black, a major air force exercise involving nations such as the US, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Spain, and France, also demonstrates Australia's readiness and close ties with its allies.