Richard Marles Says Australia Intended to Acquire Three Second‑Hand Submarines in AUKUS Deal

In a recent statement, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said the AUKUS agreement originally envisaged three second‑hand submarines. Marles emphasized that this was the plan from the outset of the partnership. The comment was made during a discussion of the trilateral security pact. AUKUS links Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States on defence cooperation. The focus on second‑hand vessels reflects cost‑effectiveness concerns. The remark may shape expectations for the submarine procurement timeline. Analysts will assess how the clarification influences future negotiations. Observers await any official policy updates that follow the comment.