The U.S. Department of State’s Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell suggested that the AUKUS submarine project between the United States, Australia, and Britain could help deter Chinese attacks against Taiwan. Speaking at an event hosted by the Center for a New American Security, Campbell stated that the new submarine capabilities would strengthen peace and stability in the region, particularly in the strait that separates Taiwan and China. The collaboration between the three countries in developing a fleet of nuclear-powered attack submarines could enhance deterrence and coordination in various scenarios, including potential cross-strait circumstances.
When the trilateral security partnership known as AUKUS was announced in 2021, Chinese officials criticized the pact, stating that it undermined regional peace and stability and intensified the arms race. Despite China’s backlash, the Biden administration clarified that the partnership was not aimed at any specific country. The President praised the alliance, recognizing the importance of ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region over the long term. China has long claimed Taiwan as a part of its territory and has threatened to unify it with the mainland, including through the use of force. Tensions between China and Taiwan have escalated in recent weeks, with Kinmen, an archipelago administered by Taiwan near the Chinese city of Xiamen, becoming a focal point for cross-strait tensions.
China’s Defense Ministry spokesperson recently asserted that Taiwan is an integral part of China and refuted the concept of “forbidden and restricted waters” in the Xiamen-Kinmen area. This statement reflects China’s strong stance on Taiwan’s sovereignty and its determination to eventually achieve unification. The ruling Chinese Communist Party has never governed Taiwan, which has its democratic government that rejects China’s sovereignty claim. The increased tensions between China and Taiwan have led to incidents near Kinmen, with a recent altercation involving a Chinese fishing boat intruding into Taiwanese waters resulting in fatalities. Beijing denounced the incident and deployed its coast guard to the area in response.
Campbell’s comments on the potential for the AUKUS submarine capabilities to strengthen deterrence in the region offer insight into the strategic considerations of the United States and its allies in dealing with the growing tensions between China and Taiwan. By enhancing coordination and capacity in submarine operations, the partnership aims to ensure peace and stability in the region. Despite the criticisms and protests from China regarding the AUKUS pact, the Biden administration has emphasized that the alliance is not targeted at any specific country and is focused on promoting security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan underscore the importance of diplomatic efforts and strategic partnerships in maintaining stability and security in the region.
