AUKUS Partnership to Build Australia's SSN-AUKUS Submarines

The United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia have forged the AUKUS partnership to bolster trilateral security and construct nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy. This landmark agreement signifies a significant advancement in defense collaboration among the three nations.

1. Submarine Construction

Collaboration between Australia’s ASC and UK-based BAE Systems to construct submarines.
Primarily based on a British design with incorporation of US weapons system.
Australia plans to have eight nuclear-powered submarines operational by the 2050s.

2. Capabilities

Equipped for intelligence, surveillance, undersea warfare, and strike operations.
Enhanced stealth and quietness compared to Australia’s current diesel-powered fleet.
Maximizing interoperability among AUKUS partners.

3. Funding

Australia commits 4.6 billion Australian dollars to British industry for SSN-AUKUS submarines.
Significant investments from all AUKUS partners to ensure program success.
Transformation and integration of trilateral industrial bases to support SSN cooperation.

4. Regional Concerns

China expresses concerns over potential arms race in the Asia-Pacific region due to the AUKUS deal.
China’s military modernization and assertiveness in the South China Sea and towards Taiwan are highlighted.

Trivia

First instance of a country obtaining capability to build nuclear-powered submarines and continuing production indefinitely.
Australian funding for British industry follows a defense and security pact with the UK aimed at addressing challenges such as China’s increased activity in the South China Sea and South Pacific.
Taiwan detects 36 Chinese military aircraft around the island, marking the highest number in 2024, coinciding with the AUKUS announcement.