Overview

• John Noh told senators the AUKUS review began in July, with completion expected this fall.
• He said there are commonsense steps to make Pillar I more sustainable, with specific recommendations to come from senior Pentagon leaders.
• Noh cited the need to lift Virginia-class output from about 1.2 boats per year toward roughly 2.33 to meet U.S. requirements and planned transfers to Australia.
• Lawmakers from both parties voiced frustration over the review and the message it sends to close allies, pressing for clarity on the path forward.
• An AEI commentary asserted the pact has cleared the review, but there is no official confirmation; the current plan envisions three to five U.S. submarines for Australia, with the first arrival no earlier than 2032.