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BULGARIAN MILITARY
Concerns are rising that the Royal Australian Navy might not meet its planned deployment schedule for future AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines. Sources from Australia indicate that government delays, particularly in securing funding for the primary dry dock intended to house these submarines, are to blame. This warning comes directly from a senior officer in the Royal Australian Navy.
Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm emphasized that her team is fully dedicated to addressing these issues and presenting viable solutions to the government. However, she also noted that the situation remains urgent.
Talk of a possible “failure” in the AUKUS program has surfaced for the first time, underscored by comments from Admiral Jonathan Mead, head of the Australian Submarine Agency. “We have a long road ahead. Achieving these advanced, state-of-the-art capabilities necessary for effective deterrence is complex, time-consuming, and costly,” Mead stated. “While setbacks are inevitable, we must have the confidence to push through this generational commitment.”
Malcolm and Meade’s comments followed Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles’ mention of the necessity for a new dry dock on the West Coast. However, Marles hesitated when asked about the project’s completion timeline.
The AUKUS program, introduced in September 2021, is a strategic security alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The core aim of this collaboration is to upgrade Australia’s military strength, especially through the procurement of nuclear-powered submarines.
Through the AUKUS pact, Australia plans to obtain at least eight nuclear-powered submarines. These submarines will greatly enhance Australia’s maritime defense abilities, offering a longer operational range and superior stealth compared to traditional diesel-electric submarines.
The AUKUS program is set to provide Virginia-class submarines, which stand among the pinnacle of nuclear-powered attack submarines globally. Renowned for their versatility, these submarines come equipped with cutting-edge technological features.
Powered by nuclear propulsion systems, Virginia-class submarines boast incredible endurance and operational range, negating the need for frequent refueling. They feature state-of-the-art control systems, housing advanced sonar arrays, combat systems, and navigation technology. When it comes to armament these submarines are not to be underestimated, carrying a mix of torpedoes, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and anti-ship missiles.
In a significant development last year, the U.S. demonstrated its openness to include more nations under the innovative Australia-United Kingdom-U.S. AUKUS agreement. However, top officials emphasized that interested countries must show they can contribute substantially to be considered.
“We’re seeing a vibrant interest from many nations in AUKUS, and it’s not just the core members. It’s encouraging to witness such widespread enthusiasm, and we’re committed to navigating these opportunities responsibly,” said Kurt Campbell, the deputy assistant to the president and coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, at a recent event hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Campbell added, “With the right conditions in place, all AUKUS nations are prepared to collaborate with other partners who can meet this challenge.”
The Royal Australian Navy [RAN] is aiming to operate the Virginia-class submarines it will receive from the US for at least two decades. The first two submarines will come from the current US Navy inventory, meaning they’ll be second-hand. However, Australia will also acquire a brand-new third submarine straight off the production line.
Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead, who leads Australia’s nuclear submarine task force, provided insights that highlighted some lingering uncertainties. Notably, which blocks of the Virginia-class submarines would Australia actually seek from the U.S.? According to Mead, Australia has its sights set on the Virginia Blocks III or IV.
Currently, the U.S. operates eight Block III Virginia-class submarines and has three Block IV submarines in active service. Washington aims to construct a total of 10 Block IV boats, two of which have already been launched. This class could be pivotal for U.S. defense capabilities if Australia opts for two submarines from this pool, potentially leaving Washington with only one operationally ready submarine.
Presently, the Royal Australian Navy operates Collins-class submarines. These submarines have faced criticism, notably from General Angus Campbell, head of the Australian Defense Force. Earlier this year, Campbell remarked that “Australia’s Collins-class submarines are the worst in the world.” His comments defended the AUKUS nuclear submarine project amidst criticism and underscored the need for superior capabilities.