Army Chief Coyle flags China military build-up as growing worry
Australia's new Army Chief Susan Coyle is worried about China's rapid military expansion. She says the country is not in immediate danger.
Lieutenant-General Susan Coyle became Australia's first female Army Chief in July 2026. In an interview this week, she said she is worried about China's military build-up.
Coyle wants Beijing to act with greater transparency. Lieutenant-General Coyle stressed Australia is not aiming for conflict.
The country maintains a defence force for deterrence, not threat. Coyle acknowledged the human cost to families of soldiers accused of war crimes in Afghanistan following the Brereton inquiry.
She said complex investigations take time and must be thorough. The longer they drag on, the harder it is on accused soldiers' families and witnesses.
She backed the legal process while supporting all personnel involved.
- Australia's first female Army Chief
- Position
- July 2026
- Took command
- China's military build-up
- Concern
Why it mattersThis shows Australia's defence leadership dealing with major issues. It must handle regional security concerns. It must also deal with the human cost of prosecuting alleged war crimes.
AustraliaDefence Chief's stance on China shapes how Australia positions itself in Indo-Pacific tension and signals commitment to investigating alleged misconduct by troops.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 5 h ago
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