Four Corners: Season 2025, Episode 20

2025 - 20: Submerged

As the US launches a review into AUKUS, Four Corners examines the future of the $368 billion submarine deal. Reporter Mark Willacy and the Four Corners team travel to Washington, DC to speak with key players inside the Congress and the defence community. One former Trump Defense Secretary says the program is moving too slowly. Now, the Pentagon is reviewing the entire AUKUS deal with fears it might not align with the new administration's "America First" policy. In London, senior UK figures also sound the alarm. They warn of cost blowouts and delays in building the new AUKUS-class nuclear submarine with Australia. Submerged asks the tough questions about what happens to Australia if Donald Trump decides the AUKUS deal doesn't serve America's interests – leaving Australia out of pocket and stranded.