The Albanese government doesn't need to be “...mugged. Stomped on. Mowed over. Beaten" by anyone ; it has done itself in, and the rest of us; as did the the Morrison government, with the bizarre idea that jabbering about a few submarines that we might - or might not - get in twenty years time is protecting us from a China that could wipe us out RIGHT NOW.

If we still have any money that hasn't been blown by moronic politicians, it would be better spent on weapons available now, bought from countries who still manufacture. Making it worthwhile for people to enlist would also be a good idea instead of designing a uniform suitable for gender-benders would also be good, as would replacing the idiots in the top tier of the ADF. Oh, and a decent defence minister would be nice.

You know that AUKUS is a joke when no-nukes, no nothing New Zealand wants to join up.

I'm wondering if there is a connection between the generous sling to the UK and the possible advent of SMRs. Rolls-Royce make no secret that they see Australia as a prime market. Part of the $4.6 bn could be seen as virtual equity in reactors, the naval and civilian versions being similar.

SA gets way with a lot of wind and solar as they have little heavy industry. That could change with a new desal plant on the west coast and tripling of copper refining to the north. RR will have a foot in the door.

I'm sorry, but robbing the taxpayer is inappropriate terminology.

The taxpayer is bled by both incumbent majors on treasury benches, as and when elections are due.

Binroy, keep your pro-Russian, pro Chinese comments to yourself.

Both you and the Chinese don't want Australia to be able to defend itself against Chinese/CCP imperialism.

Par for the course for this anti-American author.
Alan B.

Pathetic lot of managerial toadies. Sickening rainbow sycophants. Down, down, down ..

Don’t vote!

The fact that Binoy gets all excited over AUKUS tells me that Australia is making the correct decision.

It just warms my heart, Mate, so keep those articles coming!

"It was mugged in throwing money (that of the Australian taxpayer) at the US submarine industry, which is lagging in its production schedule."
- I think your article is about a good year or so behind schedule Binoy.
Where were u then mate?

Did the Australian people front up for your MIT university fees?
- And you give us articles years too late?

What is your purpose Binoy?
To state the obvious long after it matters?
If so, then good job.