Biden announces submarine deal with Australia, UK

President Joe Biden and the leaders of Australia and the United Kingdom announced that Australia will purchase nuclear-powered attack submarines from the U.S. to modernize its fleet during an outdoor ceremony at Naval Base Point Loma in San Diego.

The deal is part of an 18-month-old nuclear partnership given the acronym AUKUS — for Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States. The partnership, announced in 2021, enables Australia to access nuclear-powered submarines, which are stealthier and more capable than conventionally powered vessels. In a joint statement, the leaders said their countries have worked for decades to sustain peace, stability and prosperity around the globe, including in the Indo-Pacific.