In a strategic move, the US is reviewing the Aukus submarine pact with Australia and the UK, emphasizing the need for the agreement to fit its "America First" agenda amid rising geopolitical tensions.
US Reevaluates Aukus Submarine Deal Amidst "America First" Strategy
US Reevaluates Aukus Submarine Deal Amidst "America First" Strategy
The United States is reassessing its Aukus submarine agreement with Australia and the UK to align with current national security priorities.
The United States has initiated a review of its multi-billion dollar submarine deal with Australia and the UK, stating that the security pact must align with the "America First" agenda. The Aukus agreement, designed to counter China's influence in the Indo-Pacific, includes Australia procuring nuclear-powered submarines to enhance its military capabilities.
Both Australia and the UK have downplayed the review, asserting that it's typical for a new US administration to reevaluate past initiatives. This reconsideration coincides with increasing pressure from the US government for allies to ramp up military spending. Australia, while agreeing to increase its defense budget, aims to avoid the 3.5% GDP spending the US seeks.
Elbridge Colby, a critic of the Aukus deal, will lead the review, as the US is eager to ensure its military readiness while assessing the roles its allies are prepared to undertake. Meanwhile, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles expressed confidence in the continuity of the deal, stressing the necessity for a long-range submarine capability to bolster national security.
The review raises questions about Australia's commitment to the submarines and whether they will align with US strategic interests, especially regarding potential conflicts that may arise over Taiwan. Renowned think tank analyst Jennifer Kavanagh indicated a possible shift in focus from submarines to sharing advanced weaponry technology could emerge from these discussions.
For Australia, the Aukus deal represents a significant military upgrade. It will receive elite nuclear propulsion technology, allowing for enhanced operational capability. However, Washington has historically viewed arming Australia as crucial to maintaining regional peace, indicating the strategic stakes involved.
The upcoming phases of the Aukus deal involve Australia acquiring Virginia-class submarines from the US, with plans to develop new nuclear-powered sub-models in collaboration with the UK. The agreement has faced criticism, particularly from China, which perceives it as a contributor to an arms race in the region.
