Admiral David Johnston Urges ADF Readiness Amid Chinese Missile Tests

Outgoing Australian Defence Force Chief Admiral David Johnston urged the military to prepare for worst-case scenarios following a Chinese intercontinental ballistic missile test in the Pacific Ocean. The launch, which Beijing described as a routine test, prompted condemnation from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the 18-member Pacific Islands Forum.

Johnston called for greater transparency from China, citing increasing military assertiveness and unsafe interactions. He specifically pointed to a March encounter over the Yellow Sea where an Australian naval helicopter was forced to take evasive action due to a Chinese military aircraft. While defending the AUKUS submarine program as a game-changing capability, Johnston emphasized that the ADF must manage its $887 billion ten-year budget more effectively to justify requests for additional funding.

Admiral Johnston retires on Thursday, where he will be succeeded by Mark Hammond. Defence Minister Richard Marles acknowledged Johnston's career during the transition of leadership.