Can Australian uranium fuel India’s nuclear future without sparking an arms race?

AI Summary

Australia and India have finalized a deal granting India access to Australia’s large uranium reserves, supporting India’s nuclear energy expansion. This agreement aims to bolster India’s fuel security and reflects deeper strategic ties amid concerns over nuclear safeguards and regional arms dynamics.

India’s nuclear energy ambitions hinge not only on reactors and reforms but also on an unresolved fuel question: where the uranium will come from. A deal finalised with Australia last week could provide part of the answer, giving New Delhi access to the world’s largest known uranium reserves after years of delay linked to concerns over nuclear safeguards. Analysts said the agreement would help India shore up fuel security for its planned nuclear expansion, while also signalling deeper strategic...