Mind the capability gap: what happens if Collins class submarines retire before nuclear boats are ready?

Nuclear subs are the first ‘pillar’ of Aukus, but defence experts are pointing to the second pillar – hypersonic weapons, AI and drones

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“Every galah in the pet shop is talking about a capability gap”, former defence secretary Dennis Richardson memorably said.

Those “galahs” include defence experts, policymakers and industry, who are all fretting about whether Australia will be left vulnerable when the ageing Collins class submarines are retired.

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