The Aukus balancing act in South-east Asia

Recent responses of South-east Asian countries, notably Malaysia and Indonesia, are revealing of the region’s shifting views of China’s growing military capabilities.

In March 2023, Australia, Britain and the US said they would implement a multi-decade three-phase timetable for the Aukus project. PHOTO: REUTERS
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

In September 2021, Australia did something audacious. It bailed out of a multibillion-dollar deal to acquire conventional submarines from France, and announced it would embark on an ambitious project with Britain and the United States to build a fleet of nuclear-powered conventionally armed submarines.

The decision generated much controversy. Understandably, France was up in arms. China warned about the dangers of nuclear proliferation and arms racing, while the reactions from South-east Asian countries were mixed.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.