WASHINGTON, March 8 (Reuters) - Australia is expected to buy up to five U.S. Virginia class nuclear powered submarines in the 2030's as part of a landmark defense agreement between Washington, Canberra and London, four U.S. officials said on Wednesday. U.S. President Joe Biden will host leaders of Australia and Britain in San Diego next week to chart a way forward for provision of the nuclear-powered submarines and other high-tech weaponry to Australia. In the early 2030's, Australia would buy 3 Virginia class submarines and have the option to buy two more. AUKUS will be Australia's biggest-ever defense project and offers the prospect of jobs in all three countries. Reporting by Idrees Ali, Phil Stewart and Steve Holland; Editing by Chris ReeseOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

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