SSN-AUKUS: Australia’s Emergence as a Major Maritime Power of the 21st Century

Australia’s acquisition of a nuclear powered attack submarine is undoubtedly the most significant investment in the nation’s defence since federation. With the aid of Canberra’s oldest and closest friends, the Royal Australian Navy will acquire 8, world leading SSNs. This is an undersea warfighting capability of such consequence it alone will make Australia one of the worlds major naval powers. The RAN’s future submarine force will prowl the worlds oceans, threatening sea lines of communication and enemy assets across entire ocean basins, and allowing the ADF to project meaningful levels of power at intercontinental distances. But why would Australia, a peaceful democracy in the corner of the world, be investing in such a potent, blue water navy? This historic military investment is not aimed at establishing Australia’s place within the global order, nor is it aimed at giving Canberra the trappings of a great power. The simple reality is Australia’s hand is being forced; the strategic