Australia is working to address challenges in the AUKUS nuclear submarine program, Defence Minister Richard Marles said. Officials are focused on skilling the workforce and meeting construction deadlines. The announcement comes ahead of a meeting of AUKUS defence ministers in Washington.
A Pentagon review found ways to put the deal on its “strongest possible footing,” a U.S. official said. The review examined whether Australia can build its submarine base quickly and whether the U.S. can supply enough Virginia submarines. Recommendations focused on improving AUKUS operations and timelines.
Announced in 2021, AUKUS is Australia’s largest-ever defence project. The plan includes hosting four U.S. Virginia submarines in Perth by 2027. Later, several submarines will be sold to Australia, and a new AUKUS-class submarine will be built with Britain.
Marles said challenges include workforce training, building supply chains, and lifting submarine production in the U.S. He expressed confidence Australia can meet the 2027 deadline but acknowledged the “enormous uplift” required. Authorities are reviewing progress and taking a self-critical approach.
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The AUKUS defence ministers’ meeting in Washington aims to move the project forward with urgency. Officials hope to resolve challenges and strengthen collaboration between Australia, the U.S., and Britain. Observers say the program is critical for regional security in the Indo-Pacific.