Unpacking the 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan: What You Need to Know
Defense is a critical component of any nation’s security, and keeping up with the times is crucial. Therefore, the Australian Government released the 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan (DICP) to create a robust, sustainable, and innovative defense industry that can support Australia’s national interests.
In this article, we will unpack the 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan and examine what it means for businesses and individuals associated with the defense industry.
Understanding the 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan
The 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan is a roadmap that outlines the steps required to develop and maintain a robust and innovative Australian defense industry. The plan focuses on four key areas – Sovereign Industrial Capability, Australian Industry Capability, Global Competitiveness, and Innovation and Science.
The Sovereign Industrial Capability pillar is based on Australian businesses’ capability to support defense activities throughout the supply chain. The Australian Industry Capability pillar aims to maximize local industry involvement in defense contracts. Global Competitiveness focuses on developing export opportunities for Australian defense industries, while the Innovation and Science pillar aims to foster collaboration and innovation between industry, academia, and government.
What are the Key Objectives of the 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan?
The 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan has several key objectives. Let’s explore them in detail.
Sustainment and Continuous Improvement
One of the primary objectives of the DICP is to emphasize on sustainment and continuous improvement within the defense industry. The plan promotes long-term investment, collaboration among stakeholders, and a strategic outlook to ensure that the defense industry remains robust, self-reliant, and sustainable.
Enhanced Sovereign Industrial Capability
Through the Sovereign Industrial Capability pillar, the plan seeks to develop and maintain Australian industries’ capability to support defense activities throughout the supply chain. This objective aims to create a defense industry that is less reliant on foreign imports and more self-reliant.
Increased Australian Industry Involvement
Another key objective of the 2018 DICP is to increase Australian industry involvement in defense contracts. This objective aims to ensure that Australian businesses receive the maximum benefits possible from defense activities, including economic growth and job creation.
Investing in the Future
The Innovation and Science pillar of the DICP aims to foster innovation and collaboration between industry, academia, and government. This objective aims to support the development of new technologies and industries, creating new opportunities for growth and investment in the defense industry.
What are the Implications of the 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan?
The 2018 DICP has several implications for the defense industry. One of the most significant implications is the need for businesses to increase their focus on developing sovereign industrial capabilities. This will require significant investments in infrastructure, training, and equipment.
The plan also has implications for Australian businesses’ involvement in defense contracts. It is expected that there will be more opportunities for Australian businesses to participate in defense activities, leading to increased competition within the industry.
Finally, the 2018 DICP has implications for innovation and collaboration within the defense industry. The plan seeks to foster greater cooperation among industry, academia, and government, leading to more opportunities for growth and investment in the defense industry.
Conclusion
The 2018 Defence Industrial Capability Plan is a roadmap that outlines the steps necessary to create a robust, sustainable, and innovative Australian defense industry. The plan’s focus on Sovereign Industrial Capability, Australian Industry Capability, Global Competitiveness, and Innovation and Science underscores the Australian government’s commitment to creating a world-class defense industry.
It is clear that the 2018 DICP has several implications for businesses and individuals associated with the defense industry. However, with careful planning and investment, Australia will have a defense industry that is sustainable, self-reliant, and capable of protecting the nation’s interests for years to come.
