Nuclear subs deal to prevent Pacific war: Morrison

Scott Morrison says AUKUS and the Quad are the biggest checks on Chinese power in the Pacific. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Former prime minister Scott Morrison says Australia's push to acquire nuclear submarines has always been about one thing: preventing war in the Pacific.

Mr Morrison said the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS pact with the US and UK would ensure any adversary preparing to attack Australia thought twice.