AUKUS submarine deal faces scrutiny as Australians question US commitment

An Australian parliamentary inquiry has highlighted public and political doubts about US reliability in delivering the AUKUS nuclear submarine pact, with concerns over cost transparency and the clarity of Canberra's explanations. The deal, valued at up to A$368 billion, involves the transfer of Virginia-class submarines and is central to regional deterrence. Uncertainty over US commitment could undermine the strategic rationale and delay delivery timelines.