THE ‘squadron operations facility’ to be built by the United States Air Force in the Australian City of Darwin indicates an aggressive military operation throughout the region, directed against China.
The move raised fears Australia may get involved in any future military conflict between China and the US.
The project is estimated to cost $26-M and is part of the growing array of US military assets in the North.
The facility will be used for maintenance, mission planning, and intelligence and crew briefings.
The budget documents also revealed a plan by the US military to build a parking apron at the Royal Australian Air Force Military Base in Darwin that is expected to cost $258-M.
The plan was announced shortly after the Exercise Talisman Sabre hosted by Australia and the US and participated by more than 30,000 troops from 13 nations ended last week.
According to US Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Kevin Jarrard, the multinational exercise will prepare allies for possible high-end conflict.
The project was announced as trade ties between China and Australia made significant progress in recent weeks.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also hinted at a possible visit to China next month.
