BANGKOK (AP) - Australia's Defense Minister, Richard Marles, addressed concerns regarding the AUKUS trilateral security pact involving the U.S., Australia, and the UK, specifically about a recent Pentagon review of the deal. Marles emphasized that he had been aware of the review for some time, characterizing it as a natural process for any incoming administration.

During an interview with Sky News Australia, Marles pointed out that the UK government had also conducted a review of the AUKUS deal after coming into power, as part of its evaluation of the country's defense strategy. He expressed his belief that it is a legitimate right for any new government to examine such agreements, and he welcomed the United States' review, affirming that Australia would cooperate throughout the process.

The AUKUS deal, which was signed in 2021 under then-President Joe Biden, is valued at over $200 billion. It aims to enhance Australia’s maritime capabilities to counter the growing strength of China’s navy. As part of this agreement, the U.S. is set to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, alongside the planned construction of new submarines jointly developed by the two nations and the UK. To address the interim period before the new submarines are completed, the U.S. has also agreed to sell several Virginia-class submarines to Australia.

In January 2023, Australia made an initial payment of $500 million to the U.S. as part of the AUKUS deal, which is intended to support American submarine manufacturing efforts. This substantial payment signals Australia’s commitment to the agreement and its broader defense strategy in the Indo-Pacific region.

Marles had recently met with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at a defense conference in Singapore, where he expressed confidence in the progress of the AUKUS initiative. He noted, "AUKUS is on track, and we are meeting all the timelines associated with it," indicating a sense of optimism regarding the partnership's future. Despite the unfolding review, Marles remains assured that the deal is moving forward as planned.

During Hegseth's address at the defense forum, he highlighted Australia's value as an ally but did not make specific references to the AUKUS agreement until prompted during a question-and-answer session. In his statements, Hegseth underscored the importance of enhanced defense spending among allies in the Indo-Pacific region while stressing the necessity for a robust network of allies and partners to effectively counter China's influence in the area.

The ongoing dialogue between the U.S. and Australia regarding this significant defense pact illustrates both nations' commitment to maintaining a strong military alliance, particularly in light of rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific. While the Pentagon's review might raise questions, both Marles and Hegseth have conveyed a shared optimism about the future of the AUKUS deal and the collaborative defense efforts it entails.