A landmark defense agreement between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, known as the Aukus pact, is under scrutiny as the Trump administration evaluates its alignment with the ‘America First’ policy. The deal, valued at £176 billion over 30 years, aims to bolster Australia’s naval capabilities by supplying nuclear-powered submarines and fostering advanced military collaboration. Australia is set to acquire up to five Virginia-class submarines from the US, with plans to co-develop a new submarine model for both the UK and Australian navies. The pact also includes joint efforts in cutting-edge technologies such as hypersonic missiles, undersea robotics, and artificial intelligence. While the review has raised concerns about potential delays or cancellations, both the UK and Australia have dismissed these fears, emphasizing the routine nature of such evaluations during a new administration. The deal is widely perceived as a strategic move to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in contested areas like the South China Sea. Despite criticism from China, which labeled the pact ‘extremely irresponsible,’ the Aukus partners have underscored the necessity of addressing escalating regional security threats. The agreement, unveiled in September 2021, represents a significant upgrade for Australia’s military, enabling long-range strike capabilities and enhancing its strategic presence in the region. Additionally, the pact is expected to create thousands of jobs in the UK and strengthen trilateral defense ties. The review’s outcome will likely be a focal point during upcoming discussions between US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Washington, DC.