12 B-21 Raider bombers for $28 billion for Royal Australian Air Force - ASPI recommends Prime Minister to buy new American planes

This week, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) will release a report recommending that the Australian government purchase B-21 Raider bombers.

Here's What We Know

Experts from the institute believe that Australia should consider buying 12 B-21 Raider strategic bombers, despite the fact that they will have to pay about $28 billion for them. This is due to the growing Chinese threat - the weapons of the People's Liberation Army of China can strike at a distance of 3000 km, leaving the Australian defense forces "beyond competition".

It is noted that the first B-21 Raider may be received in 2030-2032, i.e. before the country's Navy will accept the first nuclear submarine for service. The question is about a Columbia class missile cruiser capable of carrying Trident intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has already answered the question about the prospect of selling new generation strategic bombers to Australia. The Pentagon chief said he wanted to get the first plane, which would pass all tests and be in full combat readiness, before starting discussions.

The advantage of the B-21 Raider for Australia will be its range, which is expected to be 4,000 km. This will allow it to cover a significant part of the region of the country's strategic interests.

The authors of the report, Marcus Hellyer and Andrew Nicholls calculated that the cost of buying 12 strategic bombers B-21 Raider and modernization of air bases to service them will be $25-28 billion. However, this amount does not include the cost of operation and armament. They will also be high, but lower than in the case of nuclear-powered submarines.

Source: AFT