Australia Doubles Down on AUKUS Submarine Deal Despite Trump Review and Rising Criticism

Australia has made a second major payment—over $800 million—to the United States as part of the AUKUS nuclear submarine agreement, bringing its total contribution to $1.6 billion.

This comes as the Trump administration launches a review of the pact to ensure it aligns with its 'America First' agenda, raising uncertainty about the deal's future. Despite bipartisan support from US lawmakers and strong backing from Australian opposition leaders, criticism and public debate are mounting in Australia over the cost, strategic value, and dependence on the US. Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison and other officials are advocating for deeper cooperation, including joint naval bases, while the government tweaks policies to accommodate US personnel.

The ongoing payments and political maneuvering highlight both the high stakes and the contentious nature of the AUKUS alliance amid shifting geopolitical tensions with China.