Australia's Struggle with National Security
Australia is facing a growing concern over its national security, as highlighted by a former military intelligence agent who has raised serious questions about the country’s defense capabilities. According to John Powers, a dual US-Australian citizen and former US special forces soldier, Australia has become a 'strategic liability' due to its 'waning' defense capabilities. He argues that the nation can no longer even protect itself effectively.
Powers served in the US military for four decades, holding positions such as a US special forces soldier, brigade task force commander, and military intelligence specialist. His final posting before retiring from the US government was as the Chief of Intelligence Liaison at the US Embassy in Canberra, where he currently resides. His insights come from a long career that involved planning wars and working closely with strategic partners.
In an interview, Powers emphasized the importance of addressing Australia's defense shortcomings. He stated that when considering potential targets, vulnerabilities are key. "Right now, to no fault of the men and women who serve in our ADF, capability-wise we're waning so... we're a liability," he said. While his comments may not be popular, he believes they are necessary truths that need to be addressed.
During his time with the US military, Powers played a role in planning operations. He noted that when developing strategies, Australia was always a starting point. "We’d always start to figure out how can we get the Aussies into the fray because when it comes to just grit and mettle and the intangibles of being a reliable soldier, sailor, airman... you could not have a better ally," he explained.
However, Powers points out that Australia's underspending on defense has diminished its appeal as a strategic partner. He argues that the country has not adequately manned, equipped, and sustained its military to keep pace with the United States. This lack of investment, he claims, has led to a loss of ability to defend itself.
Recent calls from US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth have urged Australia to increase its defense budget to 3.5% of its GDP as soon as possible. Currently, Australia plans to raise its defense spending from 2% to about 2.4% of its GDP by 2033-34, increasing funding from approximately $53 billion to an estimated $100 billion. Powers believes this is insufficient and highlights that the country lacks the necessary capabilities to even defend itself.
He also emphasizes that the issue is not solely Australia's responsibility. "It's a collective thing that's happened over time," Powers said. He notes that the previous assumption that the US would always be there for allies has changed. "We're in a different world environment now."
Powers has also criticized the AUKUS security agreement between Australia, the US, and the UK. While the pact aims to deliver at least three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines to Australia in the 2030s, it is contingent on US security assessments. "I don’t think it’s a good deal," he said. "I’m not confident we’ll ever see those three Virginia-class submarines."
In addition, Powers has called for Australia to deepen its ties with the White House. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has yet to secure a face-to-face meeting with President Trump since his re-election in January. Powers urged Australia's Ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, to step down, citing that his contacts in the US had made their feelings about the former Prime Minister clear. "Mr Rudd should do the honourable thing and resign," he said. "Mr Trump doesn’t like him. And as a result of Mr Trump not liking him, nobody else in his administration is going to give him the time of day. That is a disservice to us as Australians."
These concerns highlight the urgent need for Australia to reassess its defense strategy and investment. As global dynamics shift, the country must take proactive steps to ensure its security and maintain its position as a reliable ally.