Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines in new British-American deal

But after delays and problems with the deal, a joint virtual announcement was made on Thursday morning by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and US President Joe Biden.

Britains Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison and US President Joe Biden at a joint press conference in Canberra. Source: AAP

Mr Morrison said the three "friends of freedom" would launch an 18-month investigation into building the nuclear-powered submarines in Adelaide.

"But let me be clear. Australia is not seeking to acquire nuclear weapons or establish a civil nuclear capability," Mr Morrison said.

"We will continue to meet all our nuclear non-proliferation obligations."

It is unclear exactly what this means for the Naval Group deal.

The three nations also committed to a three-way partnership, called AUKUS, which will largely be focused on deeper defence and security ties.

Mr Johnson said the AUKUS aims to preserve peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

"We're opening a new chapter in our friendship," he said.

"The first task of this partnership will be to help Australia acquire a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines."

Image for read more article 'Australia signs $50 billion submarine deal'

The 18-month consultation period will determine workforce and training requirements, production timelines and safeguards on nuclear non-proliferation agreements.

It will be the first time Australia has acquired submarines with nuclear propulsion systems.

Mr Biden said it was a historic step to deepen and formalise co-operation between the three nations.

"We all recognise the imperative of ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific over the long-term," he said.

Australia to acquire nuclear-powered submarines in new British-American deal

Mr Morrison said it was a next-generation partnership, built on a strong foundation of trust.

"We have always seen the world through a similar lens," he said.

"We have always believed in a world that favours freedom, that respects human dignity, the rule of law, the independence of sovereign states and the peaceful fellowship of nations."

Itâ€™s badged as a way to secure stability in the Indo-Pacific region but appears aimed at bringing countries together in a show of strength against China.

Previous Australian submarines were diesel-electric-powered, and the move to nuclear will come with a recommitment by all three nations to nuclear non-proliferation.

With AAP.