The Pentagon has formally completed its review of the trilateral AUKUS nuclear-submarine agreement and confirmed plans to proceed with submarine sales to Australia. A U.S. official said Thursday the evaluation identified ways to strengthen the pact and aligned with the priorities of the current U.S. administration.
The deal, involving exports of at least three Virginia-class submarine vessels to Australia beginning in 2032 — followed by future construction of next-generation subs — remains intact. The arrangement represents Canberra’s largest defense commitment ever, totaling nearly A$368 billion (about US$240 billion) over three decades.
The review was led by U.S. Department of Defense under its defense-policy office, which earlier raised concerns about U.S. submarine production capacity. This concern remains relevant: U.S. yards must expand output significantly if they are to supply Australia without undermining their own fleet needs.