Australian defence officials are preparing to choose whether to buy warships from Germany or Japan.

It’s an $11 billion decision – and is about far more than ship design and cost.

Given Japan describes Australia as its most important security partner after the United States, our decision will send a signal about whether the relationship is reciprocated.

These considerations have been sharpened by the recent appearance of the Chinese navy off our shores – and by the Trump administration's reshaping of American foreign policy.

Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper Jason Koutsoukis, on the frigate deal that could cement the Japan-Australia alliance, or sink it.

 

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

 

Socials:Stay in touch with us on Instagram

Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis.

Photo: Connor Morrison / ADF

Australian defence officials are preparing to choose whether to buy warships from Germany or Japan.
It&rsquo;s an $11 billion decision &ndash; and is about far more than ship design and cost.
Given Japan describes Australia as its most important security partner after the United States, our decision will send a signal about whether the relationship is reciprocated.
These considerations have been sharpened by the recent appearance of the Chinese navy off our shores &ndash; and by the Trump administration's reshaping of American foreign policy.
Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper Jason Koutsoukis, on the frigate deal that could cement the Japan-Australia alliance, or sink it.
&nbsp;
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at <a href="http://7ampodcast.com.au/support">7ampodcast.com.au/support</a>.
&nbsp;
Socials: Stay in touch with us on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/7ampodcast">Instagram</a>
Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis.
Photo: Connor Morrison / ADF

An independent daily news show. We feature the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

An independent daily news show. We feature the country&rsquo;s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

A daily news show from the publisher of The Monthly and The Saturday Paper.

A daily news show from the publisher of The Monthly and The Saturday Paper. Hear from the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

The $11 billion warship decision testing Australia’s alliances

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/2fb3740d-3436-44af-8cc0-a91900716aa5/clips/114331b0-cd2b-4023-9969-b2b3005e1aaf/transcript

Advertisement