Key facts
- Pentagon official Elbridge Colby stated the Aukus deal is "full steam ahead."
- Colby, formerly a sceptic of the Aukus agreement, echoed President Trump's language.
- The US plans to sell three Virginia-class submarines to Australia, with the first expected in 2032.
- US submarine production rates are currently insufficient to meet domestic needs and export obligations.
- Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull criticized the Aukus deal as potentially leaving Australia without submarines.
Elbridge Colby, a high-ranking Pentagon official and previously a skeptic of the Aukus security pact, has stated that the deal is proceeding "full steam ahead," aligning with language used by President Trump. Colby, who authored a Trump administration review of the Aukus agreement, expressed satisfaction with the progress made since the review concluded, noting it provided a roadmap for the program's success.
The agreement involves the US selling three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines to Australia, with the first delivery anticipated in 2032, before Australia develops its own Aukus-class submarines. However, current US submarine production rates are insufficient to meet domestic demand, let alone supply Australia. Colby acknowledged the focus on increasing submarine production and maintenance.
In contrast, former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has voiced strong criticism of the Aukus deal, describing Australia's commitment as "stark staring bonkers." He argued that US legislation prevents the sale of submarines if it would degrade the US Navy's capabilities, potentially leaving Australia without any submarines.