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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
World
Daniel Hurst Foreign affairs and defence correspondent

US shipyards up to three years behind schedule on submarines as concerns grow for Aukus pact

A Virginia-class submarine during US sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean
A Virginia-class submarine during US sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean. Australia is relying on a US promise to sell it at least three Virginia-class submarines in the 2030s. Photograph: Us Navy/Reuters

US shipyards are running up to three years late in building new Virginia-class submarines, despite suggestions from a senior US diplomat that the Aukus pact with Australia will help deter Beijing from seizing Taiwan.

Australia is relying on a US promise to sell it at least three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines in the 2030s, prior to Australian-made boats starting to enter into service in the 2040s.

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