From www.aph.gov.au: The research paper discusses the deteriorating security environment in the Indo-Pacific, highlighting that the U.S. may no longer have a military advantage in the Western Pacific, prompting Australia to shift its strategic defence focus to deterrence.

It compares the capabilities of nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs) with conventional ones (SSKs), noting SSNs’ advantages in stealth, speed, endurance, flexibility, and armament, making them a superior deterrent in Australia’s vast operating area.

However, while SSNs are seen as a game-changing upgrade, Australia’s own SSNs will not be operational until the 2030s, with interim support provided by U.S. and U.K. submarines.