Sukhois/new MBT's in region.

[Hoop Snake]

Both Malaysia and Indonesia have recently purchased Su 27 and Su 30 combat aircraft recently. Malaysia as well has around 40 T-91 (Polish T-72) on order. Aust policy is while there is no percieved threat to Australia, we must concentrate on overmatching capabilities in the region. So what do these purchases mean for Australia??

[kruser79]

I think the choice of the purchases are the result of lower up front prices (and probably lower operating costs as well). But just the fact that they've upped their operational numbers like they have, leaves reason for concern. The both of them have become increasingly volatile lately. I really don't think that either is stable. Even if their present governments have no intentions of hostile action, I don't think that they have the stable power to ensure that one of their factions doesn't gain power somehow. Now THAT would be scary....

[Hannibal]

I think Australia has mostly to worry about either-

1. Major instability in Indonesia
2. China.

And I would never understimate #2. If Taiwan flares or the Chinese hardliners break out then Australia is guaranteed to see action.

-Jason

[Hoop Snake]

I've never heard a bad word about China , we are very reliant on them for buying our exports. I think our government considers them a good friend of our country. Indonesia is a strange and unpredictable beast. East Timor sent relations to there worst in a long time, but Bali bombing has seen alot of co-operation between Aust and indonesia, including re-establishing military ties. The most important thing is minimising the influence of the Muslim hard liners in both Indonesia and Malaysia.

[kruser79]

That was the unstable influence I was mentioning in my post earlier. These smaller countries may need a little help from their bigger brothers in keeping these radicals in check. Can you imagine the repercussions should one of these groups get ahold of power say, through a coup?

[9mm]

thats all true, thats why i think australia is considering the new MBT(leopard2,m1a2,challenger2) plus other updates in military equipment.

[Hannibal]

By China above I meant that a US vs. Chinese war will inevitably draw in a lot of other countries. Australia, New Zealand and others would have no choice but become involved I think.

-Jason