The UK government has announced that it will meet the schedule for launching the first of 12 Aukus-class submarines in the late 2030s, despite its own projects agency stating that the plan to build the nuclear reactor cores required to power the submarines is “unachievable.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer released Britain’s Strategic Defence Review, which emphasizes the importance of the Aukus submarines for the UK’s defense, and marks a significant shift in Britain’s deterrence and defense strategy to “war fighting readiness to deter threats.”
The UK’s ability to design and build the first Aukus submarine on time and within budget is critical for Australia. The first Australian-built Aukus submarine, based on the UK design, is expected to be delivered in the early 2040s. Any delays or cost overruns in the UK program could leave Australia without submarines, as current ones are nearing the end of their service life.
The Strategic Defence Review confirms earlier announcements that the first of up to 12 British Aukus conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines will be operational “in the late 2030s,” the previously announced “optimal pathway” timeline.
However, the UK’s major projects agency, as highlighted in its latest report, evaluates the feasibility of the plan to build nuclear reactor cores as “unachievable,” with significant issues in project definition, schedule, budget, and quality. This assessment suggests the project may need re-scoping or a reassessment of its viability.
Under the ambitious Aukus agreement, the US will sell between three and five Virginia-Class submarines to Australia, but this sale is contingent on the certification by the US president that the transaction will not undermine America’s own undersea capabilities. Concerns remain that the US Navy faces a possible shortfall and existing shipyards are behind schedule on building new submarines.
Australia’s investment in Aukus is forecasted to cost up to $368 billion through the mid-2050s, with significant funding already provided to both the US and UK. Criticism has been raised about the program’s feasibility and its impact on other defense capabilities, with some warning of a potential “capability gap” for Australia if the submarines are not delivered as planned. Despite concerns, Australia’s defense minister, Richard Marles, stated at the Shangri-La Dialogue that Aukus is “on track” and that the country remains confident about the program’s progress.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/03/uk-defence-review-says-aukus-is-on-schedule-but-fears-remain-over-possible-capability-gap-for-australia
