Overview

• Reporting by Nikkei Asia says the Pentagon study backs proceeding with AUKUS and is expected to be finalised before Anthony Albanese’s Oct. 20 meeting with President Donald Trump.
• Under the plan, Australia would receive three to five secondhand Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines from around 2032, with no nuclear weapons involved.
• The review, led by Elbridge Colby, is examining whether the transfers align with U.S. industrial capacity and the administration’s priorities.
• Concerns persist that U.S. shipyards are not producing new submarines fast enough, raising risks for both U.S. Navy availability and Australia’s schedule.
• Australian leaders voice confidence the pact will proceed, as Canberra highlights multibillion-dollar contributions to U.S. shipyards and UK propulsion work including payments to Rolls‑Royce.