2016 DEFENCE WHITE PAPER

Capability priorities 99
Amphibious Capability
4.57 The ADF’s capacity for amphibious operations will be substantially
strengthened. This will be centred on the two Canberra Class large
amphibious ships, HMAS Canberra and HMAS Adelaide, and enhanced
amphibious capabilities. The Canberra Class provides the ADF with the
capability to undertake a range of operations, including supporting the
security of maritime South East Asia and Pacific Island Countries and
addressing emergent threats in the broader Indo-Pacific region.
4.58 The Army’s restructuring and development over the last decade has
provided a foundation for further enhancement so that our land force is
compatible with amphibious operations involving the Canberra Class
amphibious ships. The Canberra Class ships provide Australia with a
highly capable and sophisticated amphibious deployment capability.
Capable of transporting over 1,000 personnel, their weapons, vehicles
and stores, and deploying these forces by helicopter and watercraft,
the Canberra class vessels have highly capable medical facilities,
including a primary casualty reception facility, as well as an ability to
command and control forces ashore. The Government will further invest
in enhancements to the ADF’s amphibious capability, including to the
sensors, countermeasures and weapons on board the Canberra Class
ships. This capability will be developed further over time, taking account
of our experience in operating the Canberra Class.
Special Forces
4.59 Australia’s Special Forces are able to undertake complex tactical
operations across a range of combat environments. This includes a
range of specialist response options while deployed overseas, including
supporting air strikes, reconnaissance and rescue missions. Special
Forces are also responsible for domestic counter-terrorism roles when
required.
SECTION TWO CAPABILITY
2016 DEFENCE WHITE PAPER