This handout video grab released by the Russian Defence Ministry on February 19, 2022, shows Russian Aerospace Forces fire Kinzhal hypersonic nuclear-capable air-launched ballistic missiles during the strategic deterrence force drills directed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, in Russia. Photo: Russian Defence Ministry / Sputnik via AFP
The newly-formed AUKUS defence pact is expanding its cooperation on high-speed , so called hypersonic missiles.
Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States formed the alliance in September last year, announcing the building of a class of nuclear-propelled submarines.Yesterday the three-way grouping announced it would acquire hypersonic weapons and electronic warfare capabilities.
Russia used the deadly high-speed missiles in airstrikes last month during the war in Ukraine.
In the announcement statement, the three leaders, Prime Ministers Scott Morrison and Boris Johnson and President Joe Biden , said AUKUS is also expanding further their intelligence-sharing arrangements and that as defence innovation research deepens, they will "seek opportunities to engage allies & close partners".
Kathryn discusses the implications of AUKUS expansion with Dr. Malcolm Davis, Senior Analyst in Defence Strategy and Capability at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and Professor Robert Ayson, from the Centre for Strategic Studies at Victoria University of Wellington.
