The United States Navy has announced plans to establish a continuous presence of nuclear-powered submarines at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia, marking a significant development in the AUKUS trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This initiative aims to enhance regional security and bolster the capabilities of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
The U.S. Navy has reactivated Submarine Squadron 3 (CSS-3) at HMAS Stirling, creating a forward command element to support the rotational presence of U.S. and U.K. submarines. This move strengthens allied undersea deterrence in the Indo-Pacific by providing a more resilient support base closer to key maritime corridors.
The establishment of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Stirling further supports this initiative by providing essential services and programs for U.S. personnel and their families assigned to the Submarine Rotational Force-West (SRF-West). This support structure is crucial for maintaining the operational readiness of the rotational submarine force.
The rotational presence of U.S. and U.K. nuclear-powered submarines at HMAS Stirling is set to begin in 2027. This initiative is part of the AUKUS agreement, which aims to enhance the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region through increased defense cooperation among the three nations.
The Australian government has committed to expanding HMAS Stirling to accommodate the scale of infrastructure required for nuclear-powered submarines. This expansion includes wharf upgrades, operational maintenance, logistics, and training facilities, with an investment of up to $8 billion over the next decade. The expansion is expected to create around 3,000 direct jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
The continuous presence of U.S. and U.K. submarines in Western Australia is anticipated to enhance the operational capabilities of the RAN, providing valuable at-sea experience with naval nuclear propulsion. Australian sailors will deploy on visiting U.K. and U.S. boats to develop at-sea experience with naval nuclear propulsion, while Australian maintenance personnel will support these submarines ashore.
This development underscores the deepening defense ties between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, reflecting a shared commitment to ensuring the prosperity and security of the Indo-Pacific region.