Australian Ex-Minister Launches Crowd-Funded Inquiry into Aukus Submarine Deal

The inquiry, which has been dubbed the 'Aukus Inquiry', is being led by former Australian defense minister, Christopher Pyne, and will look at the country's ability to receive the submarines, as well as whether they will make Australia safer. The inquiry has been crowd-funded, with donations coming from individuals and organizations across Australia. The inquiry's website states that the goal is to 'examine the Aukus submarine deal and its implications for Australia's national security and economic interests.'

Pyne, who was a key figure in the Aukus deal, has stated that the inquiry is necessary because the government has not provided enough information about the deal to the public. He has also stated that the inquiry will look at the costs and benefits of the deal, as well as the potential risks and challenges associated with it. The inquiry's terms of reference state that it will examine the 'technical, financial, and strategic implications' of the deal, as well as the 'potential risks and challenges' associated with it.

The Aukus deal, which was announced in 2021, is a $90 billion agreement between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom to build a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines for the Australian navy. The deal has been criticized by some pontoons who argue that it is too expensive and that the submarines will not be delivered on time. Others have argued that the deal is necessary to counter the growing military presence of China in the region.

According to a report by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, the Aukus deal is a 'game-changer' for Australia's national security, but it also comes with significant risks and challenges. The report states that the deal will give Australia access to advanced military technology, but it will also require significant investment and resources to operate and maintain the submarines. The report also notes that the deal will have implications for Australia's relationships with other countries in the region, including China.

The inquiry's findings are expected to be released in the coming months, and they are likely to have significant implications for Australia's national security and economic interests. The inquiry's report will also provide a detailed analysis of the Aukus deal and its implications for Australia's relationships with other countries in the region.