U.S., Australia, UK Defense Leaders Commit to Security Alliance

(MENAFN) Defense leaders from the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom reinforced their nations' dedication to the AUKUS trilateral security alliance during Wednesday's summit.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth hosted Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles alongside UK Defense Secretary John Healey at the Pentagon for the partnership's annual ministerial conference.

"In line with a shared intent to move 'full steam ahead' on AUKUS, the Principals recognized the work underway to deliver priority infrastructure and workforce uplift in support of an enhanced trilateral submarine industrial base," the officials stated jointly.

Throughout the discussions, the trio explored strategies to bolster AUKUS while emphasizing their collective determination to "inject pace and focus on delivery to ensure the long-term success of the AUKUS partnership."

The ministers acknowledged the "critical importance" of submarine collaboration under AUKUS Pillar I for maintaining a credible deterrent force.

"Additionally, they recognized the importance of advanced capabilities development under AUKUS Pillar II and discussed opportunities to further accelerate delivery of such projects, with a particular focus on near-term warfighting objectives," the statement outlined.

The three-nation AUKUS agreement, established in September 2021, commits Washington to providing Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy. Initial vessel transfers are scheduled to commence in 2032.

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