U.S. Approves $2B Sale of AUKUS Training and Devices to Australia

The U.S. State Department, emphasizing the deepening defense ties between the United States and Australia, has approved a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) valued at an estimated $2 billion for AUKUS-related Training and Training Devices.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the approval on December 1.

The Australian government had requested the acquisition of various articles and services to support the Trilateral AUKUS Pillar I program, which is focused on the provision of nuclear-powered submarines to Australia. This comprehensive package encompasses training devices, personnel training, planning, Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) services, support equipment, special tools, training software, courseware, design services, supply chain and industrial base support, facilities and construction support, publications, technical documentation, as well as personnel training and training equipment.

The U.S. government, in collaboration with contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, will also provide test and trials support, studies and surveys, and other related elements of engineering and repair services. Importantly, U.S. training of private Australian industry personnel is conditional upon explicit authorization by the U.S. Department of State, in adherence to U.S. law.

The training and devices provided will contribute to the AUKUS trilateral agreement by facilitating the training of Royal Australian Navy crews in critical areas such as submarine navigation, communications, ship control, and other key capabilities.

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Newport News, VA; General Dynamics Electric Boat, Groton, CT; and Systems Planning Analysis, Alexandria, VA, are identified as the principal contractors involved in this significant defense initiative. No offset agreements have been reported in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of the proposed sale will necessitate the deployment of approximately 70 additional U.S. Government and contractor representatives to Australia for a duration of approximately three years. Their role will include in-person training, equipment familiarization, and on-site engineering and maintenance of simulation and training devices.

A key focus of the second pillar of AUKUS involves collaborative development and utilization of advanced technologies, including AI, autonomy, advanced cyber, and electronic warfare. Noteworthy among the newly introduced initiatives is a maritime autonomous experiment and exercise series, comprising integrated trilateral activities aimed at bolstering capability development and enhancing interoperability. These exercises offer opportunities for the defense industry to engage in capability demonstrations, development, and delivery.