The value of a defence force in peace time is a common question. Unfortunately if a national security does arise, and a country does not have an adequate defence force, it is too late to start building one up. The internal skills, familiarity with hardware, loyalty and discipline cannot be built up overnight.
Our absolute reliance on the US to provide us with hardware and technical training is curious.
Is our air force an Australian arm of the US military? We fight in US wars.
Are we paying too much for US equipment, so in effect we are paying tribute to the US?
What happens if the Government makes a international policy decision that the US disapproves of? Will the US disable "our" drones and F35 fighters?
The US military is commissioned to look after its own US commercial interests, even at the expense of Australian security - let us not be fooled.
We HAVE to follow the US instructions on our dealing with China and developing countries, otherwise we will be penalised economically. The ultimate weapon of the US against Australia is to promote civil strife.
