Outside Sydney, Australia, a major development is unfolding. A nondescript building will house the first factory outside the United States to build the Lockheed Martin Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System, or GM-LRS.

This weapon is proving crucial in Ukraine's defense. Broader deterrence roles are also promising.

Australia is increasingly important in the growing, multifaceted contest with China. This development follows the significant, but also little noticed, U.S. decision in 2022 to deploy up to six B-52 strategic bombers to Northern Australia. This imposing and enormously capable, long-range strategic bomber is one of history's most durable and respected military aircraft.

In 2011, Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced an agreement to station U.S. Marines in that country. Beijing protested the deployment.

China represents an important, growing challenge to both nations. The United States opposes Beijing's aggressive pursuit of disputed reefs and islands in the South China Sea. Undeniably, China is actively expanding in the........

© The Korea Times