First US Submarine Revealed for Deployment to Australia Under AUKUS

The United States has identified the USS Colorado (SSN 788), a Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, as the first vessel to be deployed to Western Australia under the AUKUS defence agreement. This rotational deployment to HMAS Stirling, designated SRF-West, is slated to commence in late 2027. The initiative aims to support Australia’s development of its own nuclear-powered submarine fleet, with plans for up to four U.S. and one British submarine to utilize the base.

• The USS Colorado (SSN 788), a U.S. Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, will be the first deployed to Western Australia under AUKUS.
• The rotational deployment to SRF-West at HMAS Stirling is scheduled to begin in late 2027.
• This initiative is a significant milestone for Australia’s plan to operate its own nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
• Up to four U.S. Virginia-class submarines and one British Astute-class submarine are expected to rotate through the naval base.