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This was reported in the press release of the Ministry of Defense of Australia, reports Ukrinform.
It is noted that, thus, Australia became the third country in the world, along with the United States and Great Britain, to acquire and launch this type of missiles.
"HMAS Brisbane, a Hobart-class destroyer, successfully launched a Tomahawk missile during a test off the west coast of the United States," the statement said.
In line with the priorities set out in Australia's National Defense Strategy to 2024, the Government is committed to accelerating the Defense Force's long-range strike capability.
The Tomahawk launch follows tests of the Naval Strike Missile and Standard Missiles 6 earlier this year and is a "hands-on demonstration" of the speed with which the Australian government is delivering on its commitments to strengthen the country's navy's surface warships, the statement said.
Australia is said to be acquiring more than 200 Tomahawk missiles to be deployed on its Hobart-class destroyers and future Navy platforms, including Virginia-class submarines and, subject to feasibility studies, Hunter-class frigates.
The country's government is investing $1,3 billion in the purchase of these missiles, which are being put into service several years faster than originally planned.
“The enhanced lethality of the Navy's surface combatant fleet is vital to ensuring Australia's armed forces are equipped to meet our strategic circumstances and to keep Australians safe. By strengthening our own defense capabilities and working with partners, we change the calculus for any potential aggressor so that no nation ever concludes that the benefits of conflict outweigh the risks,” said Australian Navy Commander Vice Admiral Mark Hammond.
Tomahawk is a family of American subsonic cruise missiles manufactured by Raytheon. Tomahawk is a long-range strategic and tactical missile that overcomes the path at extremely low altitudes while avoiding terrain. The missile is available in many modifications, including different warheads (including nuclear) and the ability to launch from different platforms.
The photo is illustrative
