Why was France so upset by the Australian submarine decision under AUKUS?
Short answerThe cancelled programme represented major money and a strategic partnership, but Australia judged that a delayed conventional design no longer matched its industrial and long-range needs.
NotesAustralia is described as needing a submarine suited to enormous operating distances, making nuclear propulsion operationally attractive. The French arrangement was accepted partly because a conventional design promised substantial construction and industrial development in Australia. As more work shifted back to France, costs rose and delivery slipped, that bargain changed. If Australia could not build the boats locally, the rationale for accepting a less suitable diesel-electric design weakened and AUKUS became easier to justify.