The Aukus submarine deal is set to continue as planned after reports indicate it passed the Pentagon’s security review. The $368 billion program will see the United States supply Australia with three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines starting in 2032.
A US Defense Department official declined to confirm the report, stating the Aukus initiative remains under review with no new updates at this time.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking from Abu Dhabi during an overseas tour, expressed confidence in the pact. He highlighted that Aukus benefits Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States by strengthening regional security.
“This partnership will enhance peace and stability in our region,” Albanese said, noting that the review is expected to conclude before his first face-to-face meeting with former US President Donald Trump on 20 October.
The deal’s future had been uncertain after the Pentagon began assessing whether Aukus aligned with Trump’s “America-first” policies. The review is led by US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby, who has previously expressed concerns about deals that could impact the US Navy’s capacity.
A key issue in the US has been whether it can supply Australia with nuclear-powered submarines while maintaining enough for its own fleet. There has also been interest in understanding Australia’s potential role in a US-China conflict over Taiwan.
Australia has already contributed $1.6 billion to bolster US shipbuilding capacity. Delivery of the first submarines will depend on the US increasing production to meet both domestic and Australian needs.
The Australian government has consistently stated that the Pentagon review is standard procedure whenever a new administration takes office. Prime Minister Albanese emphasized that Australia has full confidence in the deal.
On Tuesday, Acting Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles reiterated that Aukus is moving forward as planned.
“Aukus is happening. That is not in question,” Marles told ABC Melbourne. He said Australia welcomes the review and will actively participate, while maintaining confidence in meeting all program milestones.
Marles also confirmed that Australia is on track to acquire its future submarine capabilities under the pact, with the project proceeding at the intended pace.
The US has encouraged Australia to raise its overall defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, up from the current level of about 2%. Albanese has resisted, stating that Australia will independently determine its defense priorities.
Meanwhile, the federal government has made new defense investments while the Pentagon review continues. This includes a $12 billion upgrade to a Western Australian shipyard that will support the Aukus submarines. Albanese and Marles confirmed that the US Navy will also have access to the Henderson defense precinct for docking and maintenance.
Experts say Aukus represents a significant commitment by the three nations, reinforcing regional security in the Indo-Pacific and ensuring Australia develops a modern and capable submarine fleet.
With the Pentagon review reportedly confirming the security of the deal, Australia, the US, and the UK appear committed to maintaining their strategic partnership and keeping the $368 billion program on track.
