This week’s budget shows AUKUS is getting bigger.

The government is putting more money into the agencies, workforce and infrastructure needed for nuclear-powered submarines.

But the deal still relies on the US agreeing to sell them to Australia, and on a Trump administration that has already reviewed AUKUS through an “America First” lens.

And as the program grows, the public still knows very little about what Australia is trading away to keep it alive.

Today, former Director of War Studies for the Australian Army, Dr Albert Palazzo, on the secrecy around AUKUS – and the US military expansion on Australian soil.

This episode was originally published in December 2025.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram

Guest: Former Director of War Studies for the Australian Army and adjunct professor at UNSW, Dr Albert Palazzo

Photo: AAP Image/Pool, Colin Murty

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.