BLUF
The author argues AUKUS enhances national resilience. True self-reliance means securing sea lanes with advanced capability, not abandoning partnerships that strengthen sovereign industry. With Australia importing most of its refined fuel, the maritime domain is crucial.Learning Outcomes
• Strategic Influences — Explains how securing maritime lifelines underpins economic and national stability in a contested environment.
• Technology — Describes why nuclear-powered submarines are essential for reach, stealth and endurance in Australia’s strategic context.
• Communication & Cognition — Encourages critical thinking about media leaks, alliance expectations and long-term capability decisions.
