The Australian government, under its Defence Capability Plan (DCP) has released its next five years’ procurement plan, outlining 110 procurement projects worth more than AUD 60 billion (US$ 48 billion). The DCP contains detailed proposals of capital equipment that are planned to be procured during 2009-2013. Major projects of the DCP include the five-phase acquisition of three squadrons of Joint Strike Fighters (100 aircraft); a three-phase acquisition of 12 submarines; the acquisition of at least 24 naval combat helicopters; replacements for the existing Armidale patrol boats, mine-hunters and hydrographic survey fleet; and the acquisition of a maritime patrol aircraft to replace the AP-3C Orion1.

• 1. “Australia outlines five-year procurement plan,” July 2, 2009, at http://www.janes.com/news/defence/jdi/jdi090702_2_n.shtml