The Australian Defence Force (ADF) will move toward net zero using a strategy that may see some frontline equipment powered by renewable energy (including alternative fuels) and batteries. Yet it expects conventional fossil fuels will remain in use beyond 2050.
The plan, detailed in two reports—Defence Net Zero Strategy, and Defence Future Energy Strategy—points out that a reduction in the availability of fossil fuels in the next 10 to 15 years due to both a reduction in oil reserves, and global action on climate change “represents a significant challenge to Defence achieving its mission of defending Australia and its national interests.”
“To do nothing may expose Defence to increasing supply chain, interoperability, resilience and financial risks,” the report says. “To meet net zero and interim targets, Defence needs to reduce emissions rapidly while maintaining or enhancing capability.”
Currently, 91 percent of Australia’s fuel supply—including that used to power the ADF’s vehicles, ships, and aircraft—is imported.
Prototype Battlefield Transport Already Available
A prototype electric Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle (formerly called an armoured troop carrier) has already been developed and launched in 2022.The electrified variant replaces the traditional diesel engine and gearbox with a pair of lithium-ion batteries and an electric motor driving each axle.
The ADF’s Emissions Breakdown
Defence has assessed that 43 percent of its emissions come from electricity to power its land-based facilities, and will seek to transition those to renewable alternatives. Aviation fuels account for another 35 percent, and diesel 18 percent.Just 1 percent of emissions are due to petrol and diesel passenger vehicles (what the ADF calls its ‘white fleet’), which will be entirely replaced by electric vehicles as they reach the end of their shelf life
The majority of the fleet will be electrified by 2030. The remaining 3 percent is gas, which Defence also hopes to replace with renewables by changing out gas-powered equipment for electrical equivalents.
While Defence purchasing can deliver emissions reductions, it will still have to meet value-for-money criteria and not compromise accelerated preparedness, operational, and capability requirements.
Initial reductions will aim to reduce electricity use by changing to renewables.
“This approach allows time for technological improvements in propulsion and power systems while also meeting the legislated targets,” the report explains. “It also allows time for Defence to signal to [the] market its commitment to clean energy transition, allowing investment in sovereign supply chains for the production of low-carbon fuels.”
It also plans to investigate opportunities for carbon sequestration on Defence-owned land.
