US Reassesses Aukus Submarine Pact Amid 'America First' Strategy

The US review of the Aukus submarine agreement, valued at £176bn, aims to ensure alignment with its "America First" policy while stirring concerns among allies about the future of military collaboration against threats like China.

The United States has initiated a review process regarding its significant submarine agreement with Australia and the UK, raising questions about the future of the Aukus pact amid a shift toward an "America First" mentality in foreign policy. This trilateral defense initiative, designed to bolster military capabilities and counter potential threats, particularly from China, includes plans for Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, enhancing its naval prowess.

Signed in 2021, the Aukus deal is worth approximately £176 billion ($239 billion), with Australia poised to buy up to five Virginia-class attack submarines from the US, marking a pivotal step in modernizing its defense strategy. However, the current US administration's reassessment comes amid ongoing pressure on allies to increase military expenditures. While the UK has committed to ramping up funding, Australia's government is reportedly hesitant to meet the US's 3.5% of GDP benchmark.

US Defense officials emphasized that the review is essential for ensuring that the pact aligns with current national security goals. They underscored the necessity for allies to contribute equitably to collective defense efforts. Elbridge Colby, leading the review, has expressed skepticism regarding the utility of the deal, highlighting the timing of a review when US submarine capacity is already stressed.

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles expressed confidence in the agreement's future, asserting its necessity for Australia's strategic defenses. Despite lobbying for a more autonomous defense policy, Marles emphasized the importance of adhering to a cohesive strategic plan. Australian officials portrayed the review as standard practice, mirroring a recent evaluation conducted by the UK.

Concerns have emerged that the US must ensure proper usage of the submarines by Australia amid rising tensions over Taiwan, which could complicate the terms of the pact. Analysts have indicated that a potential shift in focus might lead to the emphasis on sharing other forms of military technology rather than submarines specifically.

The Aukus pact has garnered both support and criticism, particularly from China, which views the agreement as a catalyst for an arms race in the region. If the US were to retract from the deal, it would be viewed positively by Beijing, which has consistently condemned the partnership.

As the Aukus framework progresses, it signals a landmark shift in military collaboration among the allies, supporting strategic stability in the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions. The intricacies of this review will play a critical role in shaping the future of international military cooperation and responses to global security threats.