Australia Launches Tomahawk Missile from Navy Ship

Australia has successfully launched a Tomahawk cruise missile from the HMAS Brisbane, becoming the third country after the U.S. and the U.K. to operate this advanced weapon. The missile was tested off the coast of California and demonstrated its capability to strike targets with precision at a range of up to 1,000 miles. This milestone is part of Australia's broader defense strategy, involving an investment of approximately $1.3 billion to acquire over 200 Tomahawk missiles for deployment on various naval platforms, including future Virginia-class submarines. The acquisition aligns with the AUKUS security partnership and aims to bolster Australia's defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in light of rising tensions with China. Additionally, Australia has committed to sending significant military aid to Ukraine, further highlighting its active role in global defense efforts. Minister Richard Marles emphasized that these advancements are crucial for ensuring national security and maintaining regional stability.