Three years have passed since Australia, the UK and the US forged the Aukus strategic alliance, a trilateral security pact aimed at reshaping security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. A central component of this agreement is the development of nuclear-powered submarine capability for Australia, underscoring the enduring importance of submarines in modern defence.
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In a time of rapid technological advancements, including drones, cyber warfare and space-based technologies, submarines remain unmatched for their stealth, endurance and power projection. Submarines, particularly ballistic missile submarines, possess an assured second-strike capability that serves as a powerful deterrent in any conflict, making them a cornerstone of national security strategies.
Despite the advances in anti-submarine warfare technologies – such as enhanced sonar systems, underwater surveillance networks and magnetic anomaly detection – submarines continue to adapt and evolve to maintain their strategic edge.
Countries are heavily investing in cutting-edge submarine technologies, including acoustic quieting techniques like anechoic coatings and advanced propeller designs, which reduce their acoustic signatures and make detection more difficult.
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Under the Aukus partnership, Australia is set to acquire at least three US Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines by the early 2030s. Australia will also work towards developing its own nuclear-powered submarines, which will be based on the UK’s next-generation design incorporating technology from all three nations.