The Motorization of the Australian Army

The 1987 Australian Defense White Paper made sweeping changes in the priorities of that countrys defense forces, their orientation, and their equipment requirements. The Army has, for the first time, been directed to provide rapidly deployable ground forces that can operate over vast distances with little support. The principal area of concern is the northern and northwestern portions of Australia. The most likely contingencies ranging from low level to substantial threats would be seen coming through the air-sea gap to the northwest of Australia. This paper proposes a ground force which can meet and defeat the threat which is affordable and which provides flexibility. This force is referred to as motorized. The paper explores the capabilities, limitations, and appropriateness of this force for the unique strategic requirements spelled out in the White Paper. Logistics.