Future NT: Darwin Talisman Sabre press opportunity dominated by China questions

While discussing the importance of Talisman Sabre, a senior US commander and his allied counterparts were thrown curly questions regarding China. Read his response.

Brigadier General Shannon Smith was asked several questions about China. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

A senior US commander says he has no concerns about the US-Australian alliance, maintaining the two nations are committed to a “rule-based order” across the globe in the face regional tension.

The comments were made at RAAF Base Darwin on Thursday, when US Air Force Brigadier General Shannon Smith fronted a press conference alongside several high-ranking Australian and British officers.

The commanders hoped to use the opportunity to discuss Exercise Talisman Sabre and, specifically, the activity’s air domain.

A packed media scrum were keen to get the commandersÕ view on China. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Instead, the large media pack had other ideas and peppered the rank with questions about the threat of China.

Amid the screaming of jets and ospreys in the background, General Smith raised his voice to get his message across.

“I’m not sure if everyone can hear the question, but the big question that was asked is ‘if things go bad, will America be there?’” he said.

“I can tell you the reason we’re here today is (because of) our commitment to Australia, our commitment to the region, and over the years I’ve seen nothing but consistent messaging from our administration and our national defence strategy.”

Tyranny of distance and time is on General Smith’s mind. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

As for the two nations’ ability to work together, General Smith said he was confidence in their ability.

“We’re committed to a rule-based order across the globe – so do I have concerns? Not about our alliance (and) I don’t have concerns about interoperability,” he said.

“I have concerns about tyranny of distance, the tyranny of time, the massive scale and scope of the region and the complexity of international relationships.”

Air Commodore Louise desJardins was also asked about Chinese presence. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

His Australian counterpart, Air Commodore Louise desJardins, was asked whether she was concerned about Chinese forces potentially taking notes on the exercise.

“So the ADF always monitors our maritime approaches,” she said.

“Of course it’s something we’ll keep a close eye on.”

Air activity in the Top End is expected to ramp up considerably in the coming days.

On Thursday evening, Royal Australian Air Force jets will commence night-flying activities.

British F-35B are also expected to make an appearance when aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales appears on the horizon next week.

Originally published as Future NT: Darwin Talisman Sabre press opportunity dominated by China questions