A senior official from the US Department of State (DOS) has suggested that the ambitious submarine project involving the Australia, UK, and the US (AUKUS) may serve as a deterrent against potential Chinese aggression towards Taiwan.
Overview
Speaking at a virtual gathering organised by the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), Kurt Campbell, the Deputy Secretary of State, underscored the potential of the new submarine capabilities to bolster peace and stability, particularly in the volatile strait that separates China and Taiwan.
Emphasising the significance of a strengthened deterrence framework, Campbell highlighted the practical implications of AUKUS, which could entail submarines from multiple nations operating in close coordination. “I think that balance, that additional capacity, will help strengthen deterrence more generally, I think those practical circumstances of which AUKUS has the potential to have submarines from a number of countries operating in close coordination,” he said.
“Those have enormous implications in a variety of scenarios, including cross strait circumstances. So, I think I would argue that working closely with other nations, not just diplomatically but (across) defense avenues, has the consequences of strengthening peace and stability,” the Deputy Secretary added.
“What we’re confronting now are challenges that require a much deeper engagement with allies and partners,” Campbell asserted.
We are LIVE for a virtual conversation on the 3 year anniversary of AUKUS between @DeputySecState and @RHFontaine. Join the discussion! #CNAS2024https://t.co/BwxDjqmAQ9
— CNAS (@CNASdc) April 3, 2024
AUKUS, Backlash from China
While officials from the three participating countries have been cautious about publicly linking the submarine project to escalating tensions between China and Taiwan, Campbell’s remarks have offered a rare insight into the strategic calculus behind the initiative.
The announcement of the trilateral security partnership between the US, Britain, and Australia in 2021 drew sharp criticism from Chinese officials, who viewed it as a provocative move aimed at countering China’s growing military prowess. Despite Beijing’s objections, the Biden Administration reiterated that the partnership was not directed at any specific country.
China’s longstanding claim over Taiwan, which it regards as an integral part of its territory, has been a source of ongoing friction. The ruling Chinese Communist Party has repeatedly stated its intention to reunify Taiwan with the mainland, even if it means resorting to force. However, the democratically elected government in Taipei vehemently rejects Beijing’s claims.