Chopper choices? Another tough defence decision

While away, in a place cut off from on-line media, the choice of an anti-submarine warfare helicopter platform for the RAN was raised in the JSF discussion by Bushranger 71 and 12Bravo with the suggestion of a separate discussion.

Which is a suggestion keenly welcomed. It’s a topic which is arguably not beset by all of the core considerations in the JSF debate, but there are some similarities, the critical one being how we best equip Australia to defend itself and maintain defence credibility and superiority. As just a single voice more concerned with public administration than the actual choice, I’m not allied with any firm view in favour of the MH-60R or the NH-90 NFH (NATO Frigate helicopter) , and I’m intrigued by the notion that there is a viable third course of action, at this late stage, which could utilise an upgrade of older platforms to achieve a lower cost but effective solution. In an election year this issue may struggle for oxygen, but it surely merits discussion even though general media reports are essentially confined to the tender process.