Opinion | What Australia’s quest for nuclear-powered submarines tells us

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.

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.

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.