Britain and France have signed a deal to jointly develop new cruise and anti-ship missiles, said their defence procurement agencies and manufacturer MDBA.
Paris and London "have confirmed the launch of the preparation works for the Future Cruise / Anti-Ship Weapon," European missile specialist MBDA said in a statement.
It comes after Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that the new AUKUS defence alliance with Britain and the United States will contribute to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.