Australia has successfully launched the first American Tomahawk cruise missile. The country became the third country in the world after the United States and Great Britain to acquire and release Tomahawk, the Australian Defense Ministry said in a statement.
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Hobart-class destroyer HMAS Brisbane successfully launched a Tomahawk missile during a test off the west coast of the United States.
In line with the priorities set out in the country's National Defense Strategy 2024, the government is seeking to accelerate the acquisition of long-range strike capabilities by the Australian Defense Force (ADF).
“The Tomahawk, with its extended range of up to 2,500 kilometers, is a world-class capability that enables maritime platforms to deliver precision strikes against ground targets over long distances. This capability greatly enhances the ADF's ability to deter any potential threat and ensure the safety of Australians,” the Ministry of Defense said in a statement.
Australia is one of three countries, along with the United States and the United Kingdom, that have purchased these missiles and are now launching them.
Reportedly, Australia will purchase more than 200 Tomahawk missiles to be deployed on Hobart-class destroyers and future Navy platforms, including Virginia-class submarines and, subject to a feasibility study, Hunter-class frigates.
The government is investing $1.3 billion in the purchase of missiles, which are being put into service several years sooner than originally planned.
"The government's acquisition of Tomahawk, along with Naval Strike Missile and Standard Missiles 6, will provide the Navy with the most advanced and advanced naval strike and anti - missile capabilities in its history," the Australian Defense Ministry said in a statement.
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