Question Period Note: AUKUS

On September 15, Australia, the UK and the US announced a trilateral security partnership, to deepen collaboration on defense technology and support Australia's acquisition of nuclear-powered subs.

• As a Pacific nation, Canada continues to expand its defence and security engagement in the Indo-Pacific, including through an enhanced naval presence in the region. We view AUKUS as complementary to Canada's interests in the region.
• Understand this agreement responds to Australia's security needs and that the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines to maximize range and capabilities is the main driver of this initiative.
• Security in the Indo-Pacific is a priority that requires close collaboration with a wide range of partners and Canada remains committed to working with our partners and allies on security and stability in the region.

• Canada is actively engaged in cooperation on emerging technologies through our existing alliances and partnerships, including through the Five Eyes and NATO.

On September 15th, Australia, the UK and the US announced a new trilateral security partnership, known as AUKUS, to deepen collaboration on defence-related technology and scientific research to maintain their edge in the face of strategic competition and military modernization in the Indo-Pacific. The first major AUKUS initiative will involve the sharing of sensitive nuclear submarine propulsion technology to support Australia's acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines. The arrangement will also facilitate the joint development of advanced capabilities in the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI), cyber, quantum technologies and undersea systems, as well as long-range strike capabilities.

While some observers have described the AUKUS partnership as a new trilateral alliance akin to a "three eyes" subset of the Five Eyes (FVEY) partnership, there are few indications to suggest this is the case. US, UK and Australian officials have repeatedly emphasized that the AUKUS partnership will complement efforts to build on existing security partnerships such as the Five Eyes and the 'Quad', while supporting stronger relationships with new and traditional security partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Details on the modalities and scope of the AUKUS partnership have yet to fully emerge.

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