Pentagon launches review of US-UK-Australia Aukus security alliance
Guardian1 day
Pentagon Launches Review of AUKUS Submarine Pact
Above: The US Navy's USS Minnesota (SSN-783) off the coast of Western Australia on March 16. Image copyright: Colin Murty/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
America shouldn't give away critical submarine technology when facing production shortfalls and potential conflict with China. The U.S. Navy can't even meet its submarine targets, so why sell these crown jewel assets to allies who aren't spending enough on defense? Australia needs to increase its GDP spending by 3.5% before gaining access to the U.S.' most advanced capabilities.
Anti-Trump narrative
Abandoning AUKUS would hand China a significant victory and destroy trust with America's closest allies who've already invested billions. This partnership strengthens collective deterrence in the Indo-Pacific while creating American jobs and boosting its industrial base. Walking away from committed allies would severely damage the U.S.' credibility worldwide.
Narrative D
The strategic importance of the pact, combined with bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress, suggests AUKUS' survival is likely. While Trump may seek to renegotiate terms, the mutual benefits and Australia's significant investments make dismantling the agreement improbable.