AUKUS Submarine Deal Faces Criticism Over Cost and Strategic Viability

A U.S. Congressional report raises concerns about the financial and strategic implications of Australia's nuclear submarine plans under AUKUS.

The AUKUS agreement involves the U.S. selling Virginia-class submarines to Australia, with Australia investing $3 billion into the U.S. submarine industrial base.
A Congressional Research Service report warns that the project’s 'too big to fail' mindset could lead to significant cost overruns, impacting Australia's defense budget.
Alternatives to the current AUKUS plan include the U.S. operating submarines from Australian bases and Australia investing in other military capabilities like B-21 bombers.
Critics argue that the current plan might compromise Australia's sovereign control over its military assets and suggest exploring more cost-effective defense strategies.
The U.S. Navy's own submarine production faces delays, highlighting the need for alternative solutions such as unmanned or diesel-electric submarines to meet strategic demands.