Australia Commences Nuclear Submarine Maintenance

Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States have initiated the Submarine Tendered Maintenance Period (STMP) at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia today.

This event marks a milestone in the AUKUS partnership, which aims to enhance stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The STMP is a key step in Australia's acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs) under the AUKUS agreement. Australian personnel, who have undergone training from the U.S. and U.K. over the past year, will now directly participate in the maintenance of a nuclear-powered submarine on Australian soil for the first time.

This activity represents an important phase in Australia's journey toward establishing the Submarine Rotational Force – West (SRF-West), which will involve the rotational presence of U.K. Astute class and U.S. Virginia class submarines at HMAS Stirling. The knowledge and skills transferred during this period are critical to preparing Australia to own and operate its SSN capability.

The STMP also emphasizes nuclear stewardship and the safety culture that AUKUS partners are committed to upholding. Simulated training exercises during the maintenance period will enhance Australia's ability to safely manage nuclear-powered submarines, ensuring the protection of personnel, the public, and the environment.

As part of the broader AUKUS initiative, the STMP underscores the commitment of the three nations to maintain nuclear non-proliferation and to reinforce the principles that have allowed the U.S. and U.K. to safely operate nuclear-powered vessels for nearly seven decades.