Australia Shifts Nuclear Submarine Plan: From New to Used Virginia-Class Models, May 31

Australia will not purchase newly built U.S. Virginia-class nuclear submarines as originally planned, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles confirmed on May 31. Instead, the country will acquire used Virginia-class submarines currently in service with the U.S. Navy.

Under the revised plan announced May 31, Australia intends to purchase two used Virginia-class submarines and one new upgraded Virginia-class model from the 2030s onward, down from the original agreement for two used and one new improved variant. The adjustment is expected to ease U.S. manufacturing pressure, though it may accelerate aging of Australia's submarine fleet.