AUKUS

AUKUS is a trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, announced on September 15, 2021. The agreement is intended to deepen defense and security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and to help Australia acquire and operate advanced security capabilities, including nuclear-powered submarines. The pact also covers cooperation in cyber security, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and advanced undersea capabilities.

Core provisions include the sharing of technology and expertise to enable Australia to obtain a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, with the United States and United Kingdom providing support on design, propulsion, and related technologies. The arrangement emphasizes safeguards and nonproliferation commitments, and Australia would operate its submarines under applicable international safeguards and inspections, without the transfer of nuclear weapons.

Historical context and timeline: AUKUS followed the 2021 decision to replace a previously negotiated submarine deal with France. The program seeks to increase deterrence and interoperability among the three nations and to bolster allied presence in the Indo-Pacific. The plan aims to have Australia’s first nuclear-powered submarines enter service in the 2030s, with ongoing collaboration on sustainment and industrial capacity.

Reception and impact: AUKUS drew support from allied governments seeking to counter regional challenges but faced criticism and concern from various parties, including France over the cancellation of its submarine contract, questions about nuclear nonproliferation and safety, and worries about regional arms competition. The agreement has affected defense procurement and industrial policies in Australia and prompted ongoing debates on nuclear policy and export controls within partner countries.