17 September 2021 - New AUKUS strategic partnership
What is the Aukus alliance and what are its implications?
Patrick Wintour (The Guardian, 16/09/2021)
What is Aukus?
It is a new three-way strategic defence alliance between Australia, the UK and US, initially to build a class of nuclear-propelled submarines, but also to work together in the Indo-Pacific region, where the rise of China is seen as an increasing threat, and develop wider technologies. It means Australia will end the contract given to France in 2016 to build 12 diesel electric-powered submarines to replace its existing Collins submarine fleet. The deal marks the first time the US has shared nuclear propulsion technology with an ally apart from the UK.
Chinese outrage at new US-UK-Australian security pact
(ABC News, 16/09/2021)
China has strongly criticised a new defence and security pact between the United States, UK and Australia.
The AUKUS agreement is intended to help deliver stablility in the Indo-Pacific region, which has come under increasing Chinese influence.
The deal will deliver a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines to the Australian navy. That has also angered France which was expecting to supply the defence equipment.
China condemns AUKUS pact, Tony Abbott flags a 'common danger', Kevin Rudd urges caution
Stephanie Dalzell (ABC News, 16/09/2021)
Beijing has slammed the new US alliance with Australia and Britain, under which Canberra will acquire nuclear submarine technology, as an "extremely irresponsible" threat to regional stability.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told a regular press briefing on Thursday that the agreement "seriously undermines regional peace and stability and intensifies the arms race".
The Western allies did not mention China when unveiling the submarine deal on Wednesday (US time), but their intent was clear, with each referring to regional security concerns.
AUKUS: is an arms race with China the price of ‘Global Britain’?
Barbara Yoxon (The Conversation, 17/09/2021)
A new military alliance between the US, Australia and the UK will, for the first time, provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines.
While not officially aimed at another country, the “AUKUS” deal aims to deter China’s growing influence in the South Pacific. While many policymakers believe deterrence is the only way to protect the west’s interests, this strategy carries significant risks to the UK and its allies.