The AUKUS agreement, unveiled in 2021 by Australia, Britain, and the United States, aims to counter China’s expanding naval influence. Under this pact, Canberra would acquire at least eight nuclear-powered Virginia-class submarines starting from the 2030s.
Valued at US$240 billion, the deal is set to elevate Australia into the select group of nations possessing nuclear-powered underwater strike capability. This development marks a significant enhancement of Australia’s defense and strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region.
Despite some concerns about the agreement, Senator Marco Rubio’s assurances suggest that a current review is more likely to lead to recalibration rather than outright cancellation. According to Troy Lee-Brown, a research fellow at the University of Western Australia’s Defence and Security Institute, the review may result in tighter safeguards on technology transfer and cost-sharing measures to ensure the deal’s effectiveness and security.
Overall, the AUKUS agreement represents a major step in strengthening the trilateral partnership and enhancing regional security amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/economics/article/3326159/aukus-faces-america-first-review-will-trumps-agenda-scupper-deal?utm_source=rss_feed
