Greens defence spokesman David Shoebridge argues Australia's plan to acquire nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS is unrealistic for defending sea trade lanes, advocating for a more modest defence approach and diplomatic engagement with Asian neighbours amidst rising tensions with China.
Australia's AUKUS submarine plan now involves acquiring three used Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines from the US, a shift Defence Minister Richard Marles says will save money and simplify training. Analysts debate the impact on naval capabilities, while experts note the Block IV models are relatively new and highly capable.
Australia opts for a third secondhand Virginia-class submarine over new models to simplify training and reduce costs in the Aukus program, with estimated savings but no fundamental cost shift in the $370bn deal.
South Korea plans to launch its first submarines powered by low-enriched uranium by the mid-2030s, with delivery to the Republic of Korea Navy by the late 2030s, ensuring a 30-year operational lifespan without nuclear weapons capability.
South Korean leader Lee calls for accelerated development of nuclear-powered submarines, aided by US cooperation, to enhance defence capabilities and peace on the Korean peninsula.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung directs officials to expedite the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines and the transfer of wartime operational control from the U.S., citing the need to enhance self-defense amid North Korea's escalating nuclear and missile threats.
South Korea's Navy has begun the formal process to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, submitting a requirements document to the Joint Chiefs of Staff amid stalled security talks with the U.S. The U.S. has approved the project and committed to assisting with fuel sourcing.
A labor union has voiced strong opposition to Port Kembla being named a preferred Australian base for nuclear-powered submarines, citing security risks and potential political fallout. Documents revealed the New South Wales government's preference, warning of the area becoming a target.
A labor union has voiced strong opposition to documents revealing Port Kembla as a preferred Australian base for nuclear-powered submarines, citing it would make the area a "massive target" and warning of political fallout.
