The AUKUS agreement, a strategic defense pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, has faced scrutiny and skepticism, particularly in Australia. The article highlights the challenges faced by Australia in justifying the need for the submarines to its public, especially in the context of its economic relationship with China. The author argues that Australia's reluctance to openly discuss the potential use of the submarines in a regional conflict against China has created doubts and weakened the deterrent effect of the pact. This hesitation is seen as a strategic miscalculation, as it allows China to leverage its economic power against Australia. The Pentagon's review of AUKUS, led by Elbridge Colby, initially raised concerns about Australia's commitment, but these were largely assuaged by Trump's support for the deal. The article also addresses the debate over the age of the Virginia-class submarines, with experts in Washington expecting the use of second-hand subs, which is seen as a practical and cost-effective choice. The author emphasizes the need for Australia to establish a social license for AUKUS, a point echoed by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison and other officials. The article concludes by suggesting that Australia needs to grow up and demonstrate more candor about the pact's purpose and strategic necessity to overcome public skepticism and build a stronger political consensus.
