AUKUS shenanigans cast a long shadow for Europe (Opinion)
Will AUKUS trigger an ever closer European defence union? (Photo: EUNAVFOR)
The immediate diplomatic heat may have cooled but does AUKUS put the EU further down the road towards collective defence that is independent of NATO?
The AUKUS pact announced on 16 September between Australia, the UK and the US to build submarines and share advanced defence technology has caused ripples across the world. In the Pacific it has led to a strong reaction from China, perceiving a threat to their interests, while at least one Japanese politician has seen this as a chance to begin a conversation about following Australia in acquiring nuclear submarines.
The response by France has, in diplomatic terms, was apoplectic. Its recall of ambassadors from Australia and the US, and wider threats to disrupt a range of EU-led trade talks and
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners]()
Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners
While non-EU UK struggles to join the Security Action for Europe initiative, which provides loans for defence programmes, Canada has become the first country outside Europe to get access – and did so for a nominal fee.
-
![NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems]()
NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems
During the latest edition of the NATO DiBaX, the alliance tested multiple capabilities to inform requirements for future efforts.
-
![Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome]()
Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome
The new multi-layered defence system will harness AI to neutralise airborne threats and protect Europe from Russian aggression.
