It's not just because of the cost of the vessels - up to A$368 billion ($395 billion) over the next 30 years - but also because Australia is shifting its decades-long focus on the defence of the mainland to one of projecting lethal force into far-distant waters, the realm of China.
All this is occuring with the barest of public debate and a lean case put forward by the Albanese Labor government.
The move will further embed Australia with the US military and, by implication, draw it deeper into the US foreign policy web - especially as it relates to the US defence of Taiwan, should Beijing attempt to occupy the territory.
The nuclear submarines will come first from the US, which will supply up to five secondhand 115m, 135-crew Virginia-class boats. Later, eight vessels of a new hybrid British design, equipped with a US combat system, will be built in Adelaide.
They are being supplied under the new Aukus defence pact between Australia, Britain and the US - but not New Zealand.
Denne historien er fra April 08-14 2023-utgaven av New Zealand Listener.
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Denne historien er fra April 08-14 2023-utgaven av New Zealand Listener.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Lost in the labyrinth
New Zealand was once one of the world’s most prosperous countries but it’s been mainly) down hill since the 60s. Dany. McLaucuLan identifies what’s gone wrong and the changes needed to keep us afloat.
A never-coming-of-age tale
Across 14 chapters, we chronologically follow the fortunes of George, from age 12 through to almost 40. George is an unlikeable character and we should be thankful that he is a fictional creation, because in real life no one would tolerate his deliberate and calculating cruelty.
Past glories
Debut novel takes a leaf out of the book of modern Irish writing, hurtling classical antiquity into the present.
A touch of flamboyance
Miki Magasiva fell in love with film at an early age and has finally launched a debut feature that takes a tragi-comic look at grief and families.
Pushing all the buttons
The fourth film in the hit romcom series arrives with familiar charms and fresh blokes. But it would be a good place to stop.
Gone to ground
The Te Aroha-filmed detective series that blends Irish and Māori cultures is back.
Refinding the self
Strokes and brain diseases can radically change our personalities. But with more understanding of how brains work, a leading neurologist says sometimes, our old selves can be restored.
In the cross hairs
Danish actor Claes Bang's late-career boost shows no sign of abating, as he moves from TV villain to big-screen hero.
Fabric of time
Tapa cloth samples collected from Polynesian nations on Cook's voyages have made their way into our museums and libraries.
Let's dance
Kiwi dancer, teacher and choreographer LEILA LOIS visited one of Manila's innovative dance companies as it celebrated its 10th anniversary.
