Defence Minister Richard Marles has reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to the AUKUS submarine program following a significant revision to its delivery plan, which now prioritises acquiring three second-hand Virginia-class submarines from the United States instead of a mix of new and used vessels.

Marles argues the shift simplifies logistics, reduces costs, and ensures all submarines are of the same type, making them easier to operate and maintain.

The AUKUS agreement, involving Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom, aims to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, with the Virginia-class boats expected in the 2030s and a new SSN-AUKUS fleet to follow in the 2040s.

However, the revised approach has drawn criticism from political opponents and defence commentators, who see it as a downgrade and evidence of delays or instability in the program.

Concerns have also emerged from within US policy circles, with some sources suggesting that Pentagon figures, including AUKUS critic Elbridge Colby, have influenced the changes and continue to complicate progress.Despite this, other insiders claim Colby’s influence has waned as responsibility for AUKUS delivery shifts elsewhere within the Pentagon.Australia has already committed significant funding, including a $US3 billion contribution to boost US submarine production capacity.Even so, analysts warn that reaching a full fleet of eight submarines may not occur until the early 2060s.Critics, including Greens senator David Shoebridge, argue the deal risks entangling Australia in future US-led conflicts, particularly with China.

Marles has dismissed doubts about US production capacity and broader project risks, maintaining confidence that timelines and conditions for submarine transfers will be met.

Meanwhile, defence experts have called for stronger leadership and coordination within Australia to manage the complex and long-term nature of the AUKUS program.