Australia to get a flat-top???

[wessex19]

Word out of Canberra yesterday was that the Australian government wants the RAN to be operating a"Essex Type" amphibious Carrier by 2010. With the RN soon to be phasing out their Harrriers, seems like perfect timing for the RAN although 1983 would of been better!!!

[Double Asymmetric]

Whatever you're smoking, I'll have some dude.

Mmmm...AIR 6000, AIR 7000, AIR 9000, new MBT for the Army (pretty much approved in concept), a possible interim for AIR 6000, new tankers in 2007ish, Wedgetail airframes with the needed option of the extra two (three?) frames, more surface combatants for the fleet, needed money to solve problems with current equipment (Seasprite/Collins etc) a new trainer to replace the PC-9 which is needed but unlikely.......all in a current fiscal climate where the ADF is underfunded and overstretched at present levels. The raising of such a clean sheet capability is a pipe dream of nearly Carlo Koppian proportions.

It ain't gunna happen.

[Gainesy]

Replace the PC-9s?
Are they that tired already? They only entered service with the RAAF in late 1987, early 1988.

[Chippie Chappie]

Why does Oz need and aircraft carrier? It IS an aircraft carrier!