Australia says foreign spies target nuclear subs program

Foreign spies are targeting Australia's nuclear-powered submarine program and plotting to harm or kill opponents living in the country, the nation's intelligence chief, Mike Burgess, warned Wednesday.

Mike Burgess, Australian intelligence chief said "We've seen several of our closest allies dealing with what appears to be state sponsored murders and attempted murders. We've seen compelling evidence brought before overseas courts that individuals working for foreign foreign governments committed these crimes, some orchestrated by countries whose intelligence and security services are known to target Australian interests."

" He added that AUKUS will remain a priority target for intelligent collection, including by countries that consider friendly". The AUKUS security alliance was announced in 2021 between the US, Britain and Australia and includes the creation of a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. (01:33-01:54 SOUNDBITE)