Further delays to Australia's defence projects and the slow delivery of nuclear powered-submarines would be the "greater danger" threatening the strength of the AUKUS security pact.
Richard Fontaine, a former advisor to Senator John McCain and visiting fellow at the Lowy Institute, said there was "huge support" in Washington for the partnership, which is seen to be offering great "value" in increasing regional capability.
The agreement between Australia, the UK, and US, is more than just boats and includes quantum technologies and artificial intelligence.
