Elbridge Colby, a senior Pentagon official, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Aukus nuclear submarine program, stating it is 'full steam ahead.' The deal involves the US selling Virginia-class submarines to Australia, with the first expected by 2032. Colby emphasized the strong alliance between the two nations and the importance of maintaining submarine production rates to meet both US and Australian needs.
Concerns persist regarding the US's ability to fulfill its own submarine requirements while also supplying Australia. The Aukus agreement is projected to cost Australia up to A$368 billion by the mid-2050s, with significant responsibilities for managing nuclear waste lying with Australia. Colby's remarks coincide with ongoing inquiries into the deal's implications and feasibility.