So, Australia dumps the 12 French submarines for the promise of 8 nuclear powered ones sometime in the distant future and in the process, riles France who have accused us of “a stab in the back”, and they are, or at least used to be, our close friends.
What makes this even more problematic is the way the AUUKUS plans are playing out around the region – let’s just say not everyone is happy.
In Malaysia, they are worried about a ramping up of aggression in the peaceful pacific.
Aukus pact could provoke powers to act more aggressively: Malaysia PM Ismail
In Jackarta too they were unimpressed and warned Australia about an arms build-up in the region. This is anything but a ringing endorsement.
Indonesia chides Australia as Indo-Pacific tensions rise.
In Japan, the press couldn’t help but notice how the new deal threatened the future of NATO.
US-Australia submarine deal rocks NATO alliance
Bangkok noted the French view of Australia has soured considerably.
France accuses Australia, US of 'lying' in escalating crisis
And so it goes on – whatever Morrison, Biden and Johnson were hoping for, you can hardly call this surprise move a triumph. The Chinese reaction is angry and predictable.
AUKUS plans to provide nuclear submarines to Australia seriously endangers nuclear non-proliferation
Meanwhile even here in Australia, sympathetic commentators are asking hard questions.
PM’s submarines met with strategy, money and nuclear opposition
Clearly, this story has a long way to run – stay tuned.
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