In a scathing critique of the AUKUS submarine deal, former Labor Foreign Minister Gareth Evans has unleashed a barrage of criticism, painting a grim picture of Australia's future as a 'compliant cash cow' to the United States and United Kingdom. Evans' words carry weight, given his long-standing skepticism of AUKUS and his experience as a key figure in Australian foreign policy.
The AUKUS agreement, Evans argues, is a misstep that threatens Australia's sovereignty and national interest. He believes the deal has made Australia a pawn in a geopolitical game, with the US and UK calling the shots. This sentiment is particularly striking coming from a former minister who served during the Hawke-Keating governments, a time when such a decision would have been unthinkable.
Evans' concerns extend beyond the immediate implications of the deal. He questions the feasibility of the US delivering the promised Virginia-class submarines, citing the lack of certainty and the potential for delays. The creation of the SSN-AUKUS submarine, he adds, is a risky venture that could leave Australia vulnerable to being drawn into conflicts, especially those involving Taiwan.
What makes Evans' critique even more compelling is his suggestion for an alternative path. He advocates for Australia to explore cheaper, non-nuclear submarine options from France, Japan, Germany, Sweden, or South Korea. This shift, he believes, would not only save money but also allow Australia to maintain a degree of independence in its defense strategy.
Furthermore, Evans calls for a broader military strategy, emphasizing the need to invest in other areas such as drones, uncrewed submarines, anti-ship missiles, and air-to-air missiles. This multi-pronged approach, he argues, would better equip Australia to defend itself without the constraints of the AUKUS pact.
In a time of rising geopolitical tensions, Evans' comments serve as a stark reminder of the potential risks and consequences of major foreign policy decisions. His critique highlights the need for a careful reevaluation of Australia's defense and security strategies, especially in light of the AUKUS agreement's potential impact on the country's sovereignty and global standing.
