The Australian airbase Tindal in Darwin is preparing for the arrival of strategic bombers B-52 and drones, and the decision to construct new hangars has been made. Large-scale hot refueling facilities and ammunition storage depots have been built. The base will be expanded to accommodate up to six American giant bombers.
"It was absolutely essential. It has rooms equipped with computers, new barracks, hundreds of spare beds, a backup energy supply system with emergency Rolls-Royce generators that cost millions of dollars. This raises the readiness level in case of an attack," reported expert Paul Dibb from the Australian National University.
Tindal base is already accepting a number of Australian F-35 fighters, their total number reaches 72, and it will play a key role in the event of a conflict with China. Many analysts agree that the American presence enhances Australia's internal security.
At the same time, while Americans consider presence as regular cooperation, for Australians, it's a complicated issue. Many recall the long years of prohibition on foreign military bases and fear that Australia will become a target in the event of a military conflict. Some politicians have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency in this situation.
After the redevelopment, the base will utilize not only the old B-52s but also newer bombers, such as the B-2 and the B-21. According to experts, Australia may find itself at the center of military operations against China in the event of war.
In Darwin, there is already an increased presence of American military. Locals have become accustomed to the sound of American planes, and regardless of some politicians' objections, the situation remains under control. Preparations for a possible war are being made decisively and without hesitation for the civilian population.