Australia plans to spend up to $1 billion on advanced naval mines to protect its sea lanes and ports amid China's rising influence in the Indo-Pacific region, the Australian Defense Ministry said on Monday
MOSCOW (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 23rd January, 2023) Australia plans to spend up to $1 billion on advanced naval mines to protect its sea lanes and ports amid China's rising influence in the Indo-Pacific region, the Australian Defense Ministry said on Monday.
"Defence is accelerating the acquisition of smart sea mines, which will help to secure sea lines of communication and protect Australia's maritime approaches. A modern sea mining capability is a significant deterrent to potential aggressors," the ministry told The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper.
Australia is expected to spend from $500 million to $1 billion on mines, the newspaper reported, citing sources, adding that it would be Australia's first major investment in naval mines since the Vietnam War.
According to the report, Australia will buy mines that can be remotely activated and deactivated once laid, allowing friendly commercial and naval vessels to pass safely.
In August, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles said that his country should purchase enough lethal weapons to prevent an enemy attack.
In January, the Australian government said that it would spend up to $2 billion to strengthen its missile capability.
