In talks between the U.S. and Australia, officials agreed to accelerate force posture initiatives at Australian bases, strengthen combined logistics, and boost interoperability through more joint exercises as part of expanding defense cooperation.

The aim is to maintain a favorable balance of power in the Indo-Pacific amid a growing Chinese military buildup, with deterrence and regional stability as core goals.

The agreement would enable shared capacity for guided weapons and next‑generation capabilities, ensuring aligned and complementary defense strategies between the two nations.

These discussions coincided with the final hearings of a public inquiry into AUKUS, which has faced criticism over its $368 billion price tag.

Australian public sentiment toward the US alliance has cooled since 2023, with 68% now believing the US would aid in a China conflict, down from 84%.

Australia has embarked on its largest-ever military spending program to build nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS, a plan that has drawn scrutiny over delivery timelines.

Funding under the broader effort is intended to counter China’s influence through grants, infrastructure projects, and aid to Pacific island nations.

As part of AUKUS, Australia would be able to acquire Virginia-class submarines in the early 2030s, contingent on meeting stated conditions.

The program includes rotating US submarines at HMAS Stirling, with timelines expected for the 2024–2030 period, and a rotating force of US submarines arriving in Western Australia next year.

China has criticized AUKUS, warning it could trigger a regional arms race and highlighting broader security implications of the US‑Australia alignment.

Marles met with U.S. officials in Washington, including the vice president and key White House staff, before heading to the UK for further AUKUS discussions.

The announcements align with the Pacific Islands Forum summit, where Australia and the U.S. pledged a combined $580 million to Pacific island nations amid China’s growing influence.