U.S. Launches Review of AUKUS Submarine Pact Under “America First” Strategy

The Pentagon has officially launched a review of the AUKUS security pact—an agreement between the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia focused on nuclear-powered submarines and advanced defense cooperation. The study aims to align the pact with President Trump’s “America First” agenda, ensuring it strengthens U.S. national interests while demanding solid commitments from allies.

🇺🇸 Strategic Motives Behind the Review

The review, overseen by Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby, focuses on:

• Ensuring U.S. military readiness remains top priority
• Verifying that domestic defense manufacturing can support submarine production
• Pressing allies to increase defense spending proportionately

⚠️ Concerns Over Industrial Capacity & Strategy

Under the current AUKUS deal, the U.S. is expected to supply Australia with three to five Virginia-class submarines. However, concerns are rising that this may strain American shipbuilding capacity and impact national readiness.

🧭 Bipartisan Concerns and Regional Impact

Representative Joe Courtney and other lawmakers warn that modifying the agreement could weaken U.S. alliances and empower adversaries. Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged allies to honor their commitments under AUKUS.

🔄 What's at Stake for Australia & the UK

Australia stands to gain advanced submarine capability, while the UK is accelerating submarine construction under the agreement. AUKUS represents a long-term strategic shift in Indo-Pacific naval defense.

🔍 Expert Takeaways

Issue	Details
Industrial readiness	U.S. shipyards need expansion to support both U.S. and allied builds
Pillar 1 concerns	Some argue submarine sales may weaken U.S. strategic depth
Pillar 2 optimism	Joint tech and AI cooperation seen as more sustainable
U.S. credibility	Allies worry about trust if U.S. backs out
Australia–UK commitments	Both reaffirm support for the deal

📝 What Lies Ahead

• The review may propose delaying or modifying submarine deliveries
• Congress will play a key role in shaping any changes
• Pillar 2 cooperation on tech is expected to continue
• Australia may be pushed to increase defense spending to 3–3.5% of GDP

🎯 Bottom Line

While the AUKUS pact remains active, the U.S. review marks a shift toward ensuring all elements of the agreement align with national interests. America First does not necessarily mean America Alone—but allies may need to contribute more for the partnership to continue smoothly.