Australia and UK Respond with Concern as US Reevaluates Biden-Era Deal
AUKUS submarine pact review: The Trump administration has officially launched a review of the AUKUS pact, a trilateral defense agreement with Australia and the UK to equip Australia with nuclear-powered submarines.
A US defense official confirmed the review, saying it aims to ensure alignment with President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda. The decision has sparked concerns in both Canberra and London, where officials emphasized their continued commitment to the program.
“We are reviewing AUKUS to ensure it aligns with the President’s America First agenda,” the U.S. official told media. “This review is part of evaluating initiatives from the previous administration.”
AUKUS’s Strategic Value
In response to China’s increasing military influence in the Indo-Pacific region, President Joe Biden created AUKUS in 2021. It explained how Australia will buy up to five US Virginia-class submarines beginning in 2032. The next step would be the development of a new submarine class through UK-Australia collaboration. Meanwhile, U.S. and UK submarines are expected to begin forward rotations in Western Australia as early as 2027.
Australia has committed AUD 368 billion (USD 240 billion) over 30 years to the program, making it its largest defense investment ever.
Critics Within the Trump Camp
Elbridge Colby, the Pentagon’s top policy adviser under Trump, has been vocal in his skepticism.
“My concern is why are we giving away this crown jewel asset when we most need it,” Colby warned.
Others fear the review could disrupt British defense planning and submarine industry upgrades, as the UK announced billions in new investments to support the AUKUS strategy.
Allies Urge Continuity
Despite the review, Australian officials reiterated their commitment.
“AUKUS will grow both US and Australian defense industry as well as generating thousands of new manufacturing jobs,” said a spokesperson for Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles.
UK officials labeled AUKUS as “one of the most strategically important partnerships in decades,” noting its economic and security benefits.
Political Reactions
US Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, stressed AUKUS’ strategic value.
“AUKUS is critical to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Kaine. “Anything less would play directly into China’s hand.”
Submarine Supply Constraints
Analysts and experts warn that America’s own production constraints could affect the feasibility of supplying submarines to Australia. The Pentagon’s review will reportedly focus on whether US shipyards can meet domestic and foreign demands simultaneously.
Kathryn Paik, a former Biden official, argued the partnership enhances collective deterrence without harming US military readiness.
“This review could cause allies in Canberra and London to question US reliability,” she added.
What Comes Next?
While the White House has yet to issue an official statement, one Trump administration official told media, “We are regularly reviewing foreign agreements to ensure they align with the American people’s interests.”
As allies wait for clarity, the outcome of this review could reshape military strategy across the Pacific for years to come.
Source: CNN
