The U.S. Department of Defense has launched a review of the AUKUS defense pact with the United Kingdom and Australia to assess whether it aligns with the Trump administration’s “America First” policy, Australian Defence reported.

The review could cast doubt on Australia’s planned acquisition of Virginia-class nuclear submarines — a key component of its national defense strategy.

“The Department is reviewing AUKUS as part of ensuring that this initiative of the previous administration is aligned with the President’s America First agenda,” the US Department of Defense spokesman wrote.

“This review will ensure that the initiative meets those common-sense America First criteria.”

Rendering of the British SSN-AUKUS nuclear submarine. Photo credits: BAE Systems

According to Politico, Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby leads the review. He has previously voiced skepticism about AUKUS and questioned the plan to sell three Virginia-class submarines to Australia.

Colby has argued that the U.S. should prioritize maintaining its own naval strength in the Pacific.

“Any changes to the administration’s approach for AUKUS will be communicated through official channels, when appropriate,” a spokesman noted.

AUKUS

The AUKUS agreement — a trilateral security partnership between Australia, the U.S., and the UK — was signed in 2021 during President Joe Biden’s administration. The alliance aims to bolster regional security and counter China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.

The United States, Great Britain and Australia have created a security alliance. Briefing of the heads of state of the United States, Great Britain and Australia

One of its central pillars is the transfer of nuclear-powered, conventionally armed submarines to Australia. The U.S. has agreed to share nuclear propulsion technology with Australia, a capability previously shared only with the UK.

The submarines will be built in Australia using a British design, with major contributions from UK defense firms. The U.S. will supply most of the critical technology needed for construction.

Schematic of a Virginia-class nuclear submarine. Photo credits: Naval News

Under the current timeline, beginning around 2032 and pending U.S. congressional approval, Australia is expected to purchase three Virginia-class submarines, with the option to buy two more if needed.

The AUKUS deal led to Australia’s cancellation of a previous contract with France’s Naval Group for conventionally powered submarines.

In February 2025, Australia invested $500 million to expand its domestic shipbuilding capabilities. The AUKUS partners have also signed a deal to jointly test hypersonic weapons as part of the broader defense cooperation framework.