The UK, US, and Australia have announced a historic deal to develop new “Aukus” submarines based on a British design to counter the growing threat from China in the Indo-Pacific region. The submarines, expected to be seaworthy from the late 2030s, will replace the UK's current fleet of seven nuclear-powered vessels, potentially doubling its size to 19. The submarines will be manufactured in the UK, with some components built by BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce in Barrow-in-Furness.
Australia will become the seventh country in the world to gain nuclear-powered submarines, with delivery expected in the early 2040s. To prepare for this, British submarines will begin to be rotated to Australia in 2027, while senior Australian officers will start training on US and UK submarine bases this year. The US is also expected to sell Australia three Virginia class submarines and two more if needed. The move has drawn criticism from China, but the three countries have worked closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency to set the highest standards.
The Aukus powers hope the move will contribute to global security and stability and protect freedom, human rights, the rule of law, the independence of sovereign states, and the rules-based international order.