Sydney: Australia has confirmed it has received a formal review of the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program from the United States, Defense Minister Richard Marles announced on Thursday. The review, commissioned earlier this year, assesses the progress, challenges, and strategic feasibility of the ambitious trilateral defense initiative involving Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Marles stated that Canberra is “working through” the findings while affirming that Washington remains fully supportive of the program.
The AUKUS pact represents Australia’s largest-ever defense commitment, with an investment projected at around A$368 billion (approximately $240 billion) over the next three decades. It is designed to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, significantly enhancing its naval capabilities in a region of growing strategic competition. Concerns had emerged over whether U.S. production capacity could meet both American and allied submarine requirements, prompting the review to ensure the project’s viability and timelines.
The review, delivered to Canberra this week, follows high-level discussions between Australian and U.S. officials earlier in the year. While it underscores the United States’ continued support for AUKUS, it also highlights logistical and industrial challenges, particularly the capacity of U.S. shipyards to deliver submarines to both American and allied fleets. Marles emphasized that the report is an important tool for understanding and addressing these potential bottlenecks without derailing the program.
In parallel with the receipt of the U.S. review, the Australian government has announced an internal restructuring aimed at accelerating defense procurement. The newly established Defense Delivery Agency will report directly to ministers, streamlining decision-making and aiming to reduce delays and cost overruns that have historically affected large-scale defense projects. Officials say this move reflects Canberra’s determination to ensure that the AUKUS submarines are delivered on time and meet the strategic needs of the nation.
With the U.S. review now in hand, Australia faces the delicate task of translating its ambitious plans into operational reality. Questions remain regarding the ability of U.S. industry to scale production, the management of costs, and adherence to delivery schedules. Despite these challenges, Canberra has expressed cautious optimism, reaffirming its commitment to the AUKUS partnership and underscoring the importance of nuclear-powered submarines for national and regional security.
The program, which will unfold over decades, is seen as a cornerstone of Australia’s defence posture in the Indo-Pacific and a critical element in strengthening trilateral cooperation with the United States and the United Kingdom amid rising geopolitical tensions.