Australia, UK Sign 50-Year Defence Treaty Amid US Review

Australia and the United Kingdom have agreed to sign a new 50-year treaty to strengthen their bilateral defense ties within the broader AUKUS alliance, which also includes the United States. This treaty, to be signed during ministerial meetings in Sydney, signifies a long-term commitment between Australia and the UK, particularly amid uncertainties surrounding the US role in AUKUS due to a Pentagon review initiated by President Donald Trump's administration. Under the $368 billion AUKUS program, Australia plans to acquire at least three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines from the US in the early 2030s and develop a new class of nuclear submarines domestically by the 2040s. While the US has promised to supply these submarines, the ongoing review may result in demands for increased Australian financial contributions to sustain the submarine industrial base. Both Australian and UK officials emphasize the strategic importance of this partnership in ensuring global peace and security, with the UK emerging as one of Australia's most significant defense allies. Despite the US uncertainties, Australia remains confident in the delivery of the nuclear submarine deal and the treaty underscores the two nations' intent to collaborate over the next half-century.