The Daily Submarines and Shifting Allegiances
Sep 22, 2021
Mark Landler, the London bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into the recently formed U.S.-British-Australian alliance centered on nuclear-powered submarines. He discusses the strategic significance of countering China's influence in the Asia-Pacific. The conversation reveals the diplomatic fallout with France after Australia canceled a submarine deal, highlighting major geopolitical rifts. Landler also explores the evolving U.S. foreign policy from Obama to Biden, emphasizing the complexities of shifting alliances and the ongoing challenges posed by China.
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Submarine Deal Significance
- The US-UK-Australia submarine deal involves sharing top-secret nuclear technology.
- This deal signifies a strategically important alliance against China in the Asia-Pacific.
Submarines' Purpose
- The submarines will be used to monitor Chinese naval activity in the South China Sea and Pacific Ocean.
- This alliance aims to counter China's growing military presence and ambitions in the region.
France's Reaction
- France reacted with fury, recalling ambassadors and cancelling events.
- This was due to losing their own $66 billion submarine deal with Australia, causing economic and political damage.