By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Australia will formally negotiate a new security and defence agreement with the European Union, following discussions initiated at the G7 summit. This potential partnership, modeled after similar EU agreements, would encompass military exercises and cooperation in areas like cybersecurity and counter-terrorism. Prime Minister Albanese aims to strengthen Australia’s capabilities through this collaboration, viewing it as mutually beneficial given shared values and the increasingly complex global security landscape. The negotiations occur amidst growing international pressure to increase defence spending and ongoing discussions regarding the AUKUS agreement.
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Australia is poised to initiate discussions aimed at forging a defence pact with the European Union. This move makes strategic sense, expanding Australia’s security partnerships beyond its current focus. The potential benefits are numerous, and the timing seems opportune given the evolving global geopolitical landscape.
The proposal to form a wider alliance incorporating the EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, potentially forming a “EUCANZUK” alliance, has generated significant interest. This expanded alliance would offer a substantial collective defence capability, pooling resources and expertise across diverse military sectors. The inclusion of the EU, with its considerable military strength, particularly from nations like France, would significantly bolster this collective security.
Such a partnership could address concerns about the lack of a strong naval presence in Australia, a gap that the EU could help fill. This is particularly relevant given the increasing need to counter potential threats in the Indo-Pacific region. Discussions might explore the possibility of increased joint naval exercises, intelligence sharing, and potentially even the deployment of EU naval assets to the region. This cooperation could also involve the sharing of technological advancements in naval capabilities.
A strong element of the discussion will centre on the acquisition and maintenance of fighter jets. The potential for collaboration on advanced fighter programs, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon alongside Australia’s F-35s, is a compelling prospect, despite the considerable costs and logistical challenges inherent in operating multiple fighter variants. However, it’s crucial to strategically weigh this cost against the potential benefits of increased interoperability and the wider strategic goals. Alternative collaborations, possibly focusing on other military technologies and systems, like surface-to-surface missiles and UAV fleets, may prove more cost-effective and strategically sound for Australia’s defense needs.
The submarine program is another key area where past decisions and future partnerships could shape the discussions. Australia’s decision to abandon the French submarine program in favor of nuclear-powered submarines through the AUKUS alliance was a significant and controversial event. While this decision has been widely viewed as the correct strategic path, it created friction with France. The proposed pact with the EU offers an opportunity to mend these fences while simultaneously ensuring Australia’s submarine capability aligns with long-term strategic needs. This collaboration could encompass technology sharing and potentially even joint development programs within the context of the broader defence pact.
The inclusion of New Zealand in any expanded pact is paramount. The ANZAC bond is historically strong, and any significant security partnership for Australia must encompass New Zealand. The two nations share strategic interests and often act in concert on security matters. Excluding New Zealand would be a significant oversight, undermining the overall effectiveness and stability of the proposed alliance.
However, potential pitfalls exist. Some commentators express concern that the EU’s involvement in defence matters may be slow and complicated, with other non-defence issues potentially hindering progress. The EU’s tendency to link defence agreements to other concessions on issues like fishing rights raises concerns about the efficiency and reliability of such a partnership. It is vital that any potential partnership with the EU is not hindered by bureaucratic processes or unrelated political agendas. Australia needs an alliance that prioritizes defence and will not be held back by non-essential political maneuvering.
Finally, the geopolitical context is crucial. While the pact is aimed at enhancing security, it’s important to carefully consider the potential for entanglement in EU-specific conflicts. Australia’s strategic priorities must remain focused on the Indo-Pacific region, and the EU pact should not compromise this focus. The alliance should be a mechanism for mutual benefit, and not a cause for diverting resources or attention away from core strategic objectives. The potential benefits of a robust defence partnership with the EU are significant, but a balanced and pragmatic approach, carefully weighing costs and benefits, is crucial for Australia’s long-term security.