The AUKUS treaty, which involves the sale of nuclear-powered submarines to Australia, is encountering new uncertainties. These concerns stem from the potential impact of U.S. tariffs and worries within Washington about the implications of providing these submarines to Australia, particularly in relation to deterring China.

A crucial factor in determining Australia's ability to acquire three Virginia-class submarines, scheduled to begin in 2032, is the United States' capacity to increase its own submarine production to meet the needs of the U.S. Navy. This was highlighted by Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles following discussions with his U.S. counterpart, Pete Hegseth.

Australia is also facing a previously undisclosed deadline in 2025 to provide the United States with $2 billion to support the enhancement of its submarine shipyards. The U.S. administration has requested additional funding, as stated by Marles in March.