# DoD Reviews AUKUS Submarine Plans

The Pentagon’s review of AUKUS, initiated in 2025, examined the pact’s production timelines, budget realities, and submarine employment plans. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby described the review as a useful way to address those issues candidly. AUKUS includes a planned sale of at least three Virginia-class submarines to Australia in the 2030s, development of the SSN-AUKUS for the Australian and British navies, and broader advanced-capability cooperation. No open solicitation or contract value is identified, so the procurement relevance is in future allied industrial-base needs and program planning rather than an immediate bid opportunity.

- Companies supporting submarine production or allied defense programs can use the review’s focus on timelines, budgets, and employment plans to assess how their capabilities may align with future AUKUS requirements.
- The planned Virginia-class sale and SSN-AUKUS development point to long-term opportunities across submarine design, construction, systems, and supporting capabilities; the signals provide no contract values or solicitation details.
- Colby said, “If we’re going to actually do this, here’s how it’s going to work, and we’re going to give you as much heads up as possible.”

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** November 12, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
- U.S. Navy (USN)
- Australian Navy
- British Navy

### Key Quotes
> If we’re going to actually do this, here’s how it’s going to work, and we’re going to give you as much heads up as possible.
> — Elbridge Colby, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy

### Sources
- [AUKUS review was ‘best thing’ for trilateral pact: Colby - Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/11/aukus-review-was-best-thing-for-trilateral-pact-colby) - Breaking Defense