Politics live: Australia always preferred secondhand Aukus submarines, defence secretary says

Senate estimates told it was a ‘joint idea’ to rework the nuclear submarine deal. Follow today’s news live Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast Australian troops will be sent to Poland in coming weeks to train Ukrainian soldiers in the latest effort to support its fight against Russia’s illegal invasion. Australian Defence Force personnel have since January 2023 been based in the UK helping to train Ukrainian soldiers in basic infantry tactics, leadership and military skills. Australia is continuing to adapt our contributions to Ukraine to ensure our support remains practical, relevant, and aligned with their most urgent needs.

Australia’s position is that we would have always … had a preference for three in-service (submarines). They imposed a new submarine on us and said you must take a new submarine even if you want three in-service? This is a joint exercise over many decades, working collaboratively with an alliance partner to deliver a capability which is significant and is very important for Australia’s national defence. So there are many reasons why three in-service (submarines) would be simpler, lower-cost through the training of staff, the sustainment arrangements, the maintenance requirements, and all of those considerations. Continue reading...