The United States has begun to evaluate its multi-billion dollar submarine agreement with Australia and the United Kingdom, claiming that the security agreement must align with its “America First” strategy.
Australia will receive its first nuclear-powered submarines from the US under the trilateral agreement, which is said to be intended to confront China, before the allies build a new fleet by exchanging advanced technology.
Australia and the UK, which conducted their own assessment last year, have downplayed the news of the US investigation, claiming that it is normal for a new government to conduct a reevaluation.
The action was taken in response to pressure from the White House for both Australia and the UK to reduce military spending. Downing Street complied with the demands, but Canberra mainly opposed them.
