AUKUS enhances Indo-Pacific security amid regional challenges

At the Raisina Dialogue 2025, experts discussed the AUKUS agreement, a security pact between Australia, the UK, and the US. This collaboration focusses on two main areas: Australia obtaining nuclear-powered submarines and advancing technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. Bernard Phillip, from Australia, and Abe Denmark, a former advisor on AUKUS, shared insights on this partnership. They noted that AUKUS, formed in 2021, aims to boost security cooperation amid regional challenges, especially due to China's increasing assertiveness. The first pillar of AUKUS is helping Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines. This marks the first time the US has shared its naval nuclear technology since the 1950s. The second pillar emphasizes advancements in technologies such as AI and electronic warfare, with possibilities for other countries like Japan to join. Phillip explained that Australia’s decision to join AUKUS is driven by the growing unpredictability in the Indo-Pacific region. He believes the partnership enhances Australia’s naval capabilities, allowing it to effectively address strategic challenges. Denmark spoke about progress made in AUKUS, particularly with the submarine technology under Pillar 1. While there have been advancements, Pillar 2 has not yet produced major recognizable developments. Both speakers agreed on the need for more visible achievements to showcase the alliance's effectiveness. The discussion also covered political stability in the context of AUKUS. Denmark expressed confidence that US support for AUKUS would continue under the Trump administration, despite potential debates around shipbuilding. Phillip underlined Australia’s commitment to AUKUS, highlighting its complexity, including the establishment of a nuclear regulator and training programs. Finally, they discussed AUKUS’s role in the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. Denmark argued that AUKUS is essential for modernizing alliances in response to regional threats. Phillip mentioned Australia’s broader partnerships in the region, especially with countries like India and members of the Quad, to enhance maritime security.