← All questionsGS2 · 2021 · International Relations ·AUKUS and the Indo-Pacific
QUESTION 20
GS2
15 marks

The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario.

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11 min
250 words
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What the examiner wants

Discuss AUKUS's strength and impact, and whether it will overshadow other Indo-Pacific partnerships like the Quad.

DiscussExplain the different sides of the issue, use evidence, and finish with a balanced view.

Demand-wise check

  1. 1What AUKUS is: US–UK–Australia pact (2021); nuclear-powered submarines for Australia (Pillar I), advanced tech (Pillar II)≈50 words
  2. 2Strength: hard military capability, deterrence of China≈50 words
  3. 3Impact: France's anger, ASEAN concerns about nuclear proliferation, arms race≈50 words
  4. 4Not a replacement: Quad is non-military and broader; complementary roles; India's position≈50 words

Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.

Answer plan

Introduce AUKUSStrengthsImpactsComparison with QuadConclusion

Where marks usually go

  • Not answering 'will it supersede existing partnerships'
  • Ignoring regional reactions

Draw this

  • Venn: AUKUS and Quad (overlap US, Australia)

Value addition

  • FactUnder AUKUS, Australia is to buy three to five US Virginia-class submarines from the early 2030s and later build SSN-AUKUS boats.AUKUS Optimal Pathway announcement, March 2023
  • FactAustralia's cancellation of a AUD 90 billion French submarine deal led France to recall its ambassadors from the US and Australia (2021).French Foreign Ministry

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