Recent discussions have emerged about the review of the AUKUS agreement under the Biden administration, raising significant questions about its impact on Australia's defence spending and policy alignment with the United States.

A report from Strategic Analysis Australia indicates that submarine spending will reach $17.3 billion over the next four years, exceeding the Royal Australian Air Force's budget of $12.7 billion, effectively establishing submarines as a fourth branch of Australia's Defence forces.

Defence Minister Richard Marles has clarified that the AUKUS agreement does not obligate Australia to participate in US conflicts, particularly concerning Taiwan, despite perceptions of a strong alignment with US interests against China.

The AUKUS deal has significantly enhanced Australia's position in scientific and technological research, with new legislation easing defence trade barriers among AUKUS signatories, which could influence future collaborations with non-signatory nations.

The initial AUKUS agreement was made without consulting then-opposition leader Anthony Albanese, raising concerns about the level of bipartisan support and transparency in Australian foreign policy.

There is a growing call for transparency and accountability from the Albanese government regarding Australia's defence strategy and the long-term implications of the AUKUS agreement.

Editorials are questioning whether Australian defence spending priorities have been compromised by the AUKUS deal, alongside concerns that the technology may be outdated by the time it is delivered.

Former Defence officials have warned that the US might seek to renegotiate the AUKUS terms to extract greater financial commitments from Australia or to establish US military bases within the country.

Critics have raised concerns about the reliability of US commitments, suggesting that Australia could become overly dependent on US support, especially as American global leadership faces increasing challenges.

The AUKUS submarine program, first announced in September 2021, is Australia’s most complex defence project, with a projected cost of $368 billion over the next 30 years.