Vice-Admiral Expects Used AUKUS Submarines to Have 20-year Lifespan Australia will receive three used submarines as the first delivery under Pillar 1 of AUKUS, according to Vice-Admiral Jonathan Mead. These submarines will be approximately six years old with a remaining lifespan of 20 years. This marks a shift from the original agreement, with the vessels to be transferred after undergoing significant maintenance in the United States.

• Australia will receive three used submarines under the AUKUS deal.
• The submarines are approximately six years old and have a 20-year remaining lifespan.
• This is a change from the original plan of one new and two in-service submarines.
• The transfer of these submarines will occur after extensive maintenance in the United States.