URGENT UPDATE: Burdeshaw Associates, a suburban consulting firm in Fairfax, Virginia, has secured contracts worth at least $13.2 million from the Australian Defence Department over the past decade. As tensions rise and the AUKUS pact pushes Australia towards a nuclear submarine fleet, Burdeshaw’s role becomes increasingly critical.
The firm, which operates from an inconspicuous office alongside an escape room and a karate studio, has been a key player in advising the Australian government, leveraging an extensive network of over 700 retired US military generals and admirals. These retired officials charge thousands of dollars a day for their expertise, and the demand for their services is escalating as Australia ramps up its defense capabilities.
Records reveal that since 2013, Burdeshaw has received $11.7 million specifically for “strategic planning consultation services.” In addition, a $1.5 million contract was signed with the Prime Minister’s Department in 2021 for advice to then-prime minister Scott Morrison. A recent three-year contract worth $1.2 million was confirmed in February 2023, indicating the ongoing financial relationship fueled by taxpayer dollars.
Despite repeated inquiries, the Australian Defence Department has declined to disclose detailed information about personnel hired under these contracts, citing “security and commercial-in-confidence reasons.” This lack of transparency raises concerns as senior retired US Navy personnel have been deeply embedded in the advisory structure of the Australian Defence Department, particularly in the transition to nuclear-powered submarines.
As AUKUS progresses, the involvement of retired US officials is becoming more pronounced. By late 2022, eight senior retired US Navy officers were providing high-paid advice to the Australian government regarding naval shipbuilding and transitioning to a nuclear fleet. The firm’s influence is substantial, with many contracts negotiated through Burdeshaw.
In an investigation by The Washington Post, it was revealed that former US Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter was providing consulting services through Burdeshaw for approximately $6,000 a day. Winter’s involvement in the Australian government’s Naval Shipbuilding Advisory Board dates back to 2016, illustrating a long-standing connection that has only intensified with the advent of the AUKUS agreement.
Critics are questioning the objectivity of advice provided by US military retirees, suggesting a potential bias towards American interests. Former senator Rex Patrick expressed concerns that relying solely on US admirals might lead to a narrow perspective in strategic planning.
Amid these developments, Greg Moriarty, head of the Defence Department, defended the use of US expertise, stating that such guidance is essential for Australia’s future security. Meanwhile, the Australian Submarine Agency has been active internationally, logging 218 trips at a cost of around $3 million to advance AUKUS-related programs.
As the AUKUS project unfolds, the reliance on foreign consultants is expected to grow. The question remains: how will Australia navigate its defense strategy while ensuring it aligns with national interests?
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and consider the implications of Burdeshaw Associates’ influence in shaping Australia’s defense future.
