The Australian government has announced a plan to strengthen the navy fleet which includes the commissioning of 20 destroyers and frigates, and 6 surface ships that can operate with or without crew (remotely controlled). There are 35 billion dollars on the table over 10 years. The aim is to strengthen defense capabilities in a context of tensions between China and the Five Eyes (Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States).

"A strong Australia relies on a strong navy, equipped to conduct diplomacy in our region, deter potential adversaries, defend our national interests when necessary. The size, lethality and capabilities of the future fleet of combat ships surface capabilities ensure our Navy is equipped to meet the evolving strategic challenges of our region", said Chief of the Australian Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond. 

According to the report drawn up by an independent Australian study centre, "the fleet of combat ships is not appropriate for the strategic environment that Australia faces" in the Indo-Pacific. Therefore, the Sydney government has arranged for the Royal Australian Navy to increase its fleet of large warships to a total of 26 maritime units, which will enter service within the next few years.