In a major evolution of the AUKUS pact, the UK and Australia have inked the Geelong Treaty — a 50-year strategic agreement to co-develop SSN-AUKUS submarines.
The treaty secures submarine manufacturing collaboration even as questions loom about continued U.S. involvement.
Britain aims to build 12 subs at an 18-month pace, starting in the late 2030s.
Australia will begin local construction of at least five vessels at Osborne, with the inaugural nuclear-powered sub projected to enter service in the early 2040s, marking a significant leap in its sovereign defense capabilities.
