http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5478,8206216%255E662,00.html
Missile Shield Begun
Mark Dunn
19dec03
AUSTRALIA has already begun work on the missile defence technologies that will
be adaptable to work in the so-called son of Star Wars program.
Defence Science and Technology Organisation chief defence scientist, Roger
Lough, said over-the-horizon radar work and communication technology -- being
developed at Melbourne's Fishermans Bend factory -- would be adapted for use
in the forthcoming missile defence shield.
Dr Lough said although specific work projects for missile defence were yet to
be
undertaken, scientists expect advances they have already made will form part
of
Australia's missile protection system and contribute to the joint US program.
The Fishermans Bend facility will also become Australia's main centre for
chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear weapons research in 2004,
following the closure and relocation of the CBRN centre at Maribyrnong.
In separate areas of research, Dr Lough said DSTO would advise the Australian
Defence Force to rule out vertical or short take-off and carrier-based Joint
Strike Fighters as the new generation RAAF aircraft.
Dr Lough said about 100 "conventional" JSFs would be favoured by
Australia, although weapons payload and performance criteria were still being
worked out.
DSTO researchers are also helping design Australia's new generation
air-warfare
destroyers, with an emphasis on reducing crew numbers.
