US Under Review of Biden-Era Submarine Deal with Australia and UK

 US Under Review of Biden-Era Submarine Deal with Australia and UK

The Trump administration has initiated a formal review of the Biden-era AUKUS defense pact, which involves Australia and the UK's plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines. This review, led by the Pentagon, aims to assess whether the deal aligns with the "America First" approach favored by President Trump.

AUKUS, established in 2021, allows Australia to develop and operate nuclear attack submarines and advanced weapons like hypersonic missiles, driven by concerns over China's expanding military presence in the Indo-Pacific region. Australia considers the submarines crucial to its national defense amid rising tensions with China, while the UK also plans to boost its submarine production.

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Senior officials, including Pentagon policy advisor Elbridge Colby, have expressed skepticism about the deal. Colby warned that U.S. submarines are a scarce and vital strategic asset, central to U.S. military plans against China—making the transfer of submarines to Australia potentially risky. He questioned why the U.S. would “give away this crown jewel asset” when it’s most needed for national security.

The review could lead to adjustments or cancellations of parts of the agreement, as the US reevaluates its strategic priorities. Meanwhile, Australia is heavily investing in its defense capabilities, committing billions of dollars over decades, and the UK is upgrading its submarine industrial base to increase production.

Despite uncertainties, Australia remains committed to the alliance, and the plan involves the U.S. selling Virginia-class submarines to Australia beginning in 2032, with additional collaboration on the development of new submarines extending into the 2040s.