First ship in government’s long-awaited ‘strategic fleet’ revealed

AI Summary

Australia's government has revealed the first ship in its planned 'strategic fleet' amid a steep decline in Australian-flagged vessels, which have dropped from over 100 to just nine. This reduction highlights concerns about the nation's preparedness for emergencies.

The number of large Australian-flagged ships has dwindled to just nine - down from a peak of more than 100 - leaving the nation exposed in times of emergency.