UK and Australia to Sign Historic 50-Year Aukus Treaty, Boosting Defense and Economic Ties

July 25, 2025
UK and Australia to Sign Historic 50-Year Aukus Treaty, Boosting Defense and Economic Ties
  • Australia and the UK are poised to sign a landmark 50-year Aukus treaty, emphasizing defense and diplomatic cooperation, during the ongoing Aukmin talks in Sydney.

  • The discussions, hosted by Australian officials Penny Wong and Richard Marles, include British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defense Minister John Healey, and aim to tackle strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

  • This treaty reflects a robust partnership between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding the AUKUS agreement due to a review by the Trump administration.

  • Concerns have emerged regarding the future of the AUKUS partnership, as the US review may impose increased financial demands on Australia to support its submarine industrial base.

  • Defence Secretary Healey underscored the treaty's significance for global security and economic growth, projecting it will create jobs for generations to come.

  • The UK government anticipates that the treaty will generate approximately £20 billion ($41 billion) in exports over 25 years, leading to the creation of over 7,000 jobs in British shipyards.

  • The deal includes a substantial investment of $368 billion, with Australia set to acquire at least three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines from the US by the early 2030s.

  • Additionally, the treaty encompasses a transfer of technology crucial for nuclear power systems sourced from the UK, supported by a $4 billion investment from Australia.

  • Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge emphasized the need to maintain momentum in the Aukus initiative, ensuring it translates into tangible benefits for security and job creation amidst rising global threats.

  • Foreign Secretary Lammy highlighted the unique and vital relationship between the UK and Australia, emphasizing the treaty's role in promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

  • The UK's Carrier Strike Group, which recently arrived in Darwin for military exercises, marks a significant demonstration of commitment to the Indo-Pacific and reflects the strong ties between the UK and Australia.

  • This military presence coincides with the UK's participation in Operation Talisman Sabre, a major military exercise involving over 35,000 personnel from 19 nations.

Summary based on 7 sources


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Sources

Britain pledges 50-year AUKUS support in message to Trump

The Sydney Morning Herald • Jul 24, 2025

Britain pledges 50-year AUKUS support in message to Trump

‘Partners’: Australia locks in 50-year pact

news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site for latest headlines • Jul 25, 2025

‘Partners’: Australia locks in 50-year pact


Lammy and Healey to sign bilateral Aukus deal during trip to Australia

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