Australia’s Nuclear Ambitions: Buying US Submarines to Counter China’s Growing Power

Australia’s Nuclear Ambitions: According to four anonymous US officials, Australia is set to purchase as many as five nuclear-powered submarines from the US in the 2030s. This decision is part of the Pacific security pact called AUKUS, which includes the UK and the US. The AUKUS agreement is seen as an attempt to counter China’s growing power and influence in the region.
AUKUS Agreement Details
At least one US submarine will visit Australian ports in the coming years, and by the late 2030s, a new class of submarines will be built using UK designs and US technology. Australia would have the option to purchase two more submarines after buying three Virginia-class submarines in the early 2030s.
Benefits of Nuclear Submarines
Nuclear submarines can stay underwater for longer than conventional ones, making them harder to detect. Australia’s current fleet of six Collins-class submarines will extend their service life until 2036. By purchasing nuclear submarines, Australia aims to enhance its maritime capabilities and maintain its regional strategic edge.
China’s Response and Criticism
The AUKUS agreement has drawn condemnation from China, which sees it as a threat to its growing power and influence in the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the move would “seriously damage regional peace and stability, aggravate the arms race, and harm international nuclear non-proliferation efforts.”
UK and US Involvement
The UK has reportedly succeeded in selling British-designed nuclear submarines to Australia. The US will provide technology and capabilities to deploy nuclear-powered submarines as part of the AUKUS agreement.
Future Plans and Design Details
There are no specifics about the planned new class of submarines or production locations. The Guardian newspaper reported that the UK-designed submarines would be a “stop-gap” until Australia and the UK worked together on a design for a next-generation submarine.
Lack of Confirmation from Official Sources
The Pentagon referred queries to the White House, which declined to confirm any upcoming announcement. The UK embassy in Washington, DC did not comment directly on the Reuters report but announced that UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak would travel to the US for further talks on AUKUS. The Australian embassy in Washington, DC did not respond to a request for comment.
In conclusion, Australia’s decision to purchase nuclear submarines as part of the AUKUS agreement is seen as a strategic move to maintain its edge in the region and counter China’s growing influence. The details of the new class of submarines and production locations have not been confirmed, and China has criticized the move as a threat to regional peace and stability.