USS Colorado will be assigned to Submarine Rotational Force-West, based at HMAS Stirling near Perth starting in 2027. The Virginia-class submarine will be the first US vessel to join the Submarine Rotational Force–West (SRF-West).
Under current plans, SRF-West will eventually accommodate four Virginia-class submarines and a UK nuclear attack boat under the AUKUS partnership. “The selection of USS Colorado as the first submarine assigned to SRF-West in 2027 marks a significant milestone for AUKUS Pillar I and is a decisive step in strengthening collective deterrence in the Pacific,” according to a Monday statement from Australian government and Pentagon officials.
The initiative is also designed to help Australia prepare to operate and maintain its own future nuclear-powered submarines, while supporting allied submarine deployments and maintenance activities.
