Australia Flags Concerns Over Revised AUKUS Submarine Deal

At a security conference in Singapore, the AUKUS partners – the United States, United Kingdom and Australia – announced that Australia will receive three second‑hand Virginia‑class nuclear‑powered submarines, replacing the original plan of two used vessels and one new sub. Defence Minister Richard Marles said the change would simplify the fleet and save taxpayers’ money.

Critics argue the submarines will likely be older Block 4 boats with a smaller weapon payload, describing the shift as a “bait‑and‑switch”. Labor MP Ed Husic called for a “Plan B” and urged a public, crowd‑funded inquiry, joining former defence minister Peter Garrett and ex‑chief Chris Barrie, who labelled the $368 billion project “controversial and secretive”. Concerns centre on reduced firepower, U.S. production delays, and the risk of drawing Australia into a conflict with China. Opposition figures warned of a Labor revolt over the deal, and noted possible demands from the U.S. under President Donald Trump.