Story perspectives

Australia Risks Submarine Void Without Aukus Commitment

3/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Australia could be left without submarines if it abandons the Aukus deal with the United States and United Kingdom.
Aukus is a $368 billion agreement to build eight nuclear-powered submarines.
Deputy Secretary Hugh Jeffrey says the government remains committed to Aukus.
Critics, including former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, warn of slow shipbuilding and no backup plan if submarines do not arrive.
Jeffrey says earlier attempts to replace the Collins-class submarines failed due to domestic politics and urges focusing on the current plan rather than discussing alternatives.

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Story summary

Australia could be left without submarines if it abandons the Aukus deal with the United States and United Kingdom.
Aukus is a $368 billion agreement to build eight nuclear-powered submarines.
Deputy Secretary Hugh Jeffrey says the government remains committed to Aukus.
Critics, including former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, warn of slow shipbuilding and no backup plan if submarines do not arrive.
Jeffrey says earlier attempts to replace the Collins-class submarines failed due to domestic politics and urges focusing on the current plan rather than discussing alternatives.