Analysis The transfer of Washington’s most sensitive undersea technologies constitutes the most significant upgrade in defence cooperation between the two countries since the first Australian-United States Joint Facilities commenced operation in Pine Gap more than 50 years ago. For Australia the benefits are apparent. It will join six other countries, globally, that operate nuclear-powered submarines, and it will be the only one to do so without also possessing nuclear weapons. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has also announced that Australia will get a weapons upgrade with the government purchasing American tomahawk cruise missiles and expanded long-range missile capabilities, increasing Australia’s conventional force projection capability even further. But he insists “this is not about acquiring nuclear weapons.” “Australia has no interest in that. No plans for it, no contemplation of it,” Morrison said. Meanwhile, America’s purpose for the intensive collaboration is about positioning itself firmly in Asia-pacific theatre to meet any …