Date: September 4, 2024
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Australia is stepping up its efforts to support the maintenance of US nuclear submarines, with plans to hire 200 new workers over the next two years. The initiative, announced by the Australian government on September 2, is part of a broader strategy to bolster the nation’s submarine maintenance capabilities as part of the AUKUS trilateral security partnership.
Background of AUKUS
The AUKUS agreement, signed between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom in 2021, aims to enhance security and defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. A key component of this partnership is the development of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet, with the US and UK providing technical support and expertise.
The New Submarine Employment Program
As part of the new Submarine Employment Program, the 200 workers will be employed by the government-owned Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC Pty Ltd). These individuals will undergo specialized training in the operation and maintenance of nuclear submarines, providing them with a true career path through the Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system, according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The majority of these workers will be based in Western Australia, where the HMAS Stirling naval base is located. This base is set to become a key hub for the rotational deployment of allied submarines.
Infrastructure Investment
In preparation for the deployment and maintenance of nuclear submarines, the Australian government has allocated A$8 billion (approximately 38.4 billion yuan) for infrastructure development at the Stirling base. This investment is aimed at ensuring the facility is equipped to handle the complex needs of nuclear-powered vessels.
The First US Nuclear Submarine in Australia
The first US nuclear submarine to undergo maintenance in Australia is the SSN-776 Hawaii, which arrived at the Stirling base on August 22. The submarine was greeted by a team of over 30 Australian naval personnel and ASC workers, who will conduct a Submarine Tender Maintenance Program (STMP) on the vessel.
The US Navy’s AS-39 Emory S. Land submarine support ship arrived at the Stirling base on August 16, setting the stage for the maintenance work. This marks a significant milestone in the AUKUS partnership, as it represents the first time a US nuclear submarine will be serviced on Australian soil.
A Milestone in AUKUS
Both Australian and US officials have hailed the maintenance capability as a major milestone in the AUKUS plan. Australia’s goal is to develop indigenous nuclear-powered submarine construction and maintenance capabilities. The program is currently on track, according to Australian naval officials.
US Navy Admiral William Houston, who heads the service’s nuclear propulsion department, visited the Stirling base last week and was impressed by the considerable preparations made for the deployment and maintenance of nuclear-powered vessels. Rear Admiral Jonathan Mead, the commander of the Australian Navy’s nuclear-powered submarine task force, stated that the arrival of the Hawaii for maintenance is tangible proof of the progress of the optimized route, with Western Australia set to support the deployment of US and UK nuclear submarines starting in 2027.
Conclusion
Australia’s decision to invest in its submarine maintenance capabilities is a strategic move that aligns with its commitment to the AUKUS partnership. By hiring and training a new workforce, the country is not only enhancing its defense capabilities but also creating new job opportunities and fostering a skilled workforce in the region. As the AUKUS agreement continues to evolve, the Stirling base will play a pivotal role in maintaining the readiness of allied submarines in the Indo-Pacific.
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