time we took the decision back in 2016, to build and operate a nuclear—powered submarine. that wasn't on the table. it wasn't on the table for a range of reasons. so the decision we have made to not continue with the attack class submarine and go down this path is not a change of mind, is a change of need. the goal has remained the same. and australians would expect me, as prime minister, to ensure that we have the best possible capability to keep them safe and to be unhindered in pursuing that as best as a possibly can. and that is what i have done. dr malcolm davis is a senior analyst in defence strategy and capability at the australian strategic policy institute in canberra, australia. i asked him whether this will achieve the goal of curbing china's influence. it is a huge step forward. the decision for australia to acquire submarines is a major step — something we have not been prepared to do in the past and now we are going to acquire these