Joe Biden has said a new nuclear-powered submarine deal with the US, UK and Australia will make the trio “the best in the world”. The landmark deal is a major milestone for defence between the allies amid growing pressure from China in the Indo-Pacific. It is also a significant checkpoint for new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who is seeking to thaw relations with the US.
The positive step forward for the special relationship raises hopes of a long-anticipated UK-US trade deal.
Speaking in San Diego on Monday, US President Biden – flanked by Sunak and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese – said: “You’re all the best, and we’re going to be the best in the world – the three of us.”
The three leaders announced that Australia would obtain conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines, based on a British design using US and Australian technology.
Biden made it clear that the submarines would not be armed with nuclear weapons
He said: “I want to be clear to everyone from the outset. Right off the bat, no confusion or misunderstanding, these subs are powered, not nuclear-armed submarines.”
The president hosted the two leaders at a naval base in San Diego where the trio discussed the best path forward in their partnership.
Biden added: “Simply stated, we’re putting ourselves in the strongest possible position to navigate the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
READ MORE: Sunak facing ‘real test’ with US trade deal charm offensive
