### AUKUS Submarine Deal: Pentagon Endorses Nuclear Submarine Sales to Australia The Pentagon has confirmed its endorsement of the AUKUS agreement, a trilateral security pact involving Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This endorsement follows a comprehensive five-month review that concluded the deal aligns with the "America First" agenda of President Trump. The agreement will facilitate Australia's acquisition of at least three Virginia-class nuclear submarines over the next 15 years, marking a significant shift in regional military capabilities, particularly in the context of rising tensions with China. The deal is projected to cost Australia up to $235 billion over 30 years and includes provisions for developing its own submarine manufacturing capabilities in the future. This decision comes after a tumultuous history, including a previous cancellation of a deal with France for diesel-powered submarines in favor of the AUKUS pact [https://www.firstpost.com/world/pentagon-confirms-nuclear-subamarine-deal-with-australia-13956748.html, https://www.dhakatribune.com/world/pacific-oceania/398041/after-review-pentagon-confirms-submarine-sales-to, https://24newshd.tv/05-Dec-2025/pentagon-confirms-submarine-sales-australia]. ### Structure of the AUKUS Submarine Deal Confirmation 1. **Pentagon Review Completion**: The Pentagon's five-month review of the AUKUS agreement has concluded, affirming its alignment with U.S. national security interests and President Trump's policies [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3720076-update-2-us-says-pentagon-review-sees-opportunities-to-strengthen-aukus-submarine-deal]. 2. **Submarine Acquisition Details**: Australia is set to acquire at least three Virginia-class nuclear submarines, with deliveries expected to begin in 2032 [https://www.tag24.com/world/australia/pentagon-confirms-sale-of-nuclear-powered-attack-submarines-to-australia-after-review-3445601.html]. 3. **Financial Implications**: The total cost for Australia could reach up to $235 billion over 30 years, which includes technology transfer for local submarine production [https://24newshd.tv/05-Dec-2025/pentagon-confirms-submarine-sales-australia]. 4. **Political Support and Future Outlook**: Key political figures, including Congressman Joe Courtney, have expressed support for the AUKUS pact, emphasizing its importance for U.S. national security and regional stability [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3720076-update-2-us-says-pentagon-review-sees-opportunities-to-strengthen-aukus-submarine-deal]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Timeline for Submarine Deliveries**: - **Start of Deliveries**: 2032 - **Number of Submarines**: At least three Virginia-class submarines - **Financial Overview**: - **Total Estimated Cost**: Up to $235 billion over 30 years - **Political Endorsements**: - **Congressional Support**: Strong backing from U.S. lawmakers, particularly those involved in defense and maritime policy [https://www.tag24.com/world/australia/pentagon-confirms-sale-of-nuclear-powered-attack-submarines-to-australia-after-review-3445601.html, https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3720076-update-2-us-says-pentagon-review-sees-opportunities-to-strengthen-aukus-submarine-deal]. ### Conclusion: AUKUS Pact Strengthened by Pentagon Review In summary, the Pentagon's endorsement of the AUKUS submarine deal marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Australia relations and regional security dynamics. The review has confirmed that the agreement is not only aligned with U.S. national interests but also presents opportunities for strengthening defense capabilities in the Pacific. 1. **Endorsement of AUKUS**: The Pentagon's review supports the AUKUS agreement, emphasizing its strategic importance [https://www.firstpost.com/world/pentagon-confirms-nuclear-subamarine-deal-with-australia-13956748.html]. 2. **Submarine Acquisition**: Australia will acquire at least three nuclear submarines, enhancing its military capabilities [https://www.dhakatribune.com/world/pacific-oceania/398041/after-review-pentagon-confirms-submarine-sales-to]. 3. **Financial Commitment**: The deal represents a significant financial investment for Australia, estimated at $235 billion [https://24newshd.tv/05-Dec-2025/pentagon-confirms-submarine-sales-australia]. 4. **Political Support**: Bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress underscores the deal's importance for national security [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3720076-update-2-us-says-pentagon-review-sees-opportunities-to-strengthen-aukus-submarine-deal]. This comprehensive overview highlights the strategic implications of the AUKUS pact and its potential to reshape military dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.