Part 3/9:
When asked whether Australia could build its own Virginia-class submarines to offset construction bottlenecks in the United States, Reeck responded with measured ambiguity. While acknowledging the impressive nature of the task—comparing it to the historic Apollo moon landings—he suggested that doubling production of a proven design is feasible with the right intent, but underscored that it remains a decision for policymakers.
“It’s a political decision, Jonathan, if we choose to go down that path,” Reeck stated. He elaborated, emphasizing the technological familiarity of the Virginia class, which could make it possible for Australia to develop its own capabilities if political will aligned with operational feasibility.