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
-
![Amazon Project Kuiper emphasises user-friendly solutions for multi-domain connectivity (Studio)]()
Amazon Project Kuiper emphasises user-friendly solutions for multi-domain connectivity (Studio)
At DSEI 2025, Shephard's Alix Valenti spoke to Project Kuiper's Rich Pang about the importance of enabling seamless communication between allied forces such as NATO members in challenging operational environments.
-
![DSEI 2025: Raytheon UK CEO highlights RTX skills, innovation and UK footprint]()
DSEI 2025: Raytheon UK CEO highlights RTX skills, innovation and UK footprint
At DSEI 2025, James Gray, Managing Director and CEO of Raytheon UK (part of RTX), outlines the company’s century-long presence in the UK and its evolving role across defence, aerospace, cyber, and training domains.
-
![Israel defence ministry pushes ambitious spending plans for tanks, drones and KC-46 aircraft]()
Israel defence ministry pushes ambitious spending plans for tanks, drones and KC-46 aircraft
The procurement and acceleration production plans – some of which still await approval – across the air and land domains will aim to strengthen the operational needs of the Israel Defense Forces.
