UK seeks $1bn US support package for AUKUS submarines

The UK has requested to purchase a range of technical support and equipment from the US for the AUKUS submarine programme, according to a statement released by the US Department of State.

AUKUS is a trilateral security partnership involving Australia, the UK, and the US.

The requested support includes specific components such as vertical deployment tubes, weapon launchers, canister support modules, network hardware, simulation equipment, and related electronics for the submarine warfare tactical system developed under this partnership.

This forms part of an amendment to an existing Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case, originally valued at $50m. The revised estimated total cost is now $1bn.

The new items and services will be added to the previously implemented case, which was below the congressional notification threshold.

In addition to hardware, the agreement covers software and source code, IT infrastructure, publications and technical documentation, engineering demonstration models, and test and installation equipment.

It also includes industry and facility support from the US, personnel training, and the embedding of US and UK personnel at facilities in both countries to assist with submarine design activities.

Other services include US government and contractor support in engineering, logistics, testing, trials, studies, surveys, and other related programme elements.

The initial FMS agreement covered engineering services, integration of US equipment, and support for submarine combat and weapons system design for future nuclear-powered attack submarines for both the Royal Australian Navy and UK Royal Navy under AUKUS.

It also included software, technical publications, and administrative support for UK officials at Naval Sea Systems Command Headquarters.

According to the state department, the FMS will strengthen the UK’s capacity to address current and emerging threats by enhancing its maritime deterrence capabilities.

“This acquisition will enhance stability and maritime security in the northwestern region of Europe and contribute to the security and strategic objectives of NATO and the United States,” it said. 

Principal contractors named in connection with this agreement include Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), General Dynamics Electric Boat, General Dynamics Mission Systems, Progeny Systems, Lockheed Martin, and Systems Planning and Analysis.