US, UK, Australia Launch Undersea Drone Project Under Aukus, May 31

The US, UK, and Australia announced a new Aukus project to develop underwater drone technology by 2027 to protect critical undersea cables. Defence ministers cited eight documented cable cuts in the past 18 months, attributed to China and Russia. The UK will contribute £150 million ($201 million) to the program. Australia also agreed to buy three secondhand Virginia-class submarines from the US.

Cables Under Attack at Record Pace

Undersea internet cables carry 99% of Australia’s internet traffic and are being cut at unprecedented rates. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles cited five cable cuts in the Taiwan Strait and three in the Baltic Sea over the past 18 months. He called the seabed “a battlefield” and warned that shadow-fleet vessels are becoming “a weapon” in geopolitical conflict.

New Drones to Monitor and Strike

The uncrewed undersea vehicles will carry cutting-edge sensors and weapons systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike operations. UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the technology would “rapidly give our forces advanced battle technologies” and strengthen deterrence in the Pacific, Atlantic, and High North waters. Deliveries begin in 2027.

Australia Buys Secondhand Submarines

Australia will purchase three secondhand Virginia-class submarines from the US instead of a mix of old and new vessels. The move simplifies supply chain management, operational requirements, and maintenance costs. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the first US Navy sailors will arrive in Western Australia later this year to establish Naval Support Activity Stirling.

Aukus Pillar Two Gains Momentum

The underwater drone project is the first signature project under Aukus Pillar Two, which focuses on advanced military capabilities including hypersonic missiles, undersea robotics, and artificial intelligence. UK Defence Secretary Healey acknowledged past criticism, saying “for too long in Aukus, we talked too much and delivered too little.” The three defence ministers met in Singapore and reaffirmed their commitment to delivering the partnership.

Final Thoughts

The Aukus underwater drone project addresses a real threat to global infrastructure and signals Western resolve to counter maritime sabotage. With deliveries starting in 2027, the three nations are moving from talk to action on shared defence priorities.

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