DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE
Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999, Fax: 02 6265 1545
MSPA 202/10
Friday, 04 June 2010
Chief of Navy outlines the RAN’s strategic vision
The Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Russ Crane, AO, CSM, RAN, has unveiled the
blueprint for Navy’s future, launching the new edition of Australian Maritime
Doctrine in Canberra.
While the recent Defence White Paper outlined what’s in store for Navy and the rest
of the ADF in terms of hardware, the Australian Maritime Doctrine details the
philosophical and strategic concepts needed to meet the many future challenges to our
maritime security.
The maritime sector is already worth $48 billion annually to the Australian economy.
The continuing expansion in our use of the sea will see this amount grow further in
the years ahead.
“It is an inescapable strategic reality that as Australians we live within a huge
maritime realm,” Vice Admiral Crane said.
“Unfortunately, not many of us are aware of it. We are surrounded by three great
oceans that control our climate, generate enormous wealth and provide our most
important transport medium. Too many Australians still see the sea as a barrier rather
than as our highway to the world.”
First released in 2000, this new edition of Australian Maritime Doctrine provides an
authoritative guide to current naval thinking, describing the importance of the sea to
all Australians and setting out the RAN’s unique place in our national security.
Taking into account the many changes which have occurred in the past decade, this
latest doctrine focuses on the need for international cooperation in dealing with global
maritime threats both here and abroad. It also places added emphasis on the
requirements of a joint approach to defending Australia and its interests.
“The ADF cannot operate effectively unless everyone works together,” Vice Admiral
Crane said. “Australian Maritime Doctrine formalises a strengthening partnership
across Navy and the ADF, and is a key element in our work to ensure all Australians
better understand the importance to their nation of the sea and sea power.”
For more information:
Australian Maritime Doctrine can be found at:
Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: (02) 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
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