US could run nuclear submarine ‘out of Australia tomorrow’: Pentagon
The top American admiral in the Indo-Pacific said the United States could remove its nuclear-powered submarines from Australia “tomorrow” in a speech declaring the effort “absolutely necessary” to keep China at bay.
Speaking before a congressional committee in Washington on Wednesday (Thursday AEST), Admiral Samuel Paparo praised Australia’s progress in preparing HMAS Stirling in Western Australia to host US and UK naval rotations from next year
“Having a rotational base in the Indian Ocean is absolutely essential,” he said.
“HMAS Stirling is on track for the rotational force to arrive in Perth in just over a year.
“Between the dock, shore power, tender facilities and the maritime security company, we could be ready today to operate a rotational submarine fleet out of Australia tomorrow.”
He added that “Australian submariners performed well in schools” as well as on ships.
“And by all accounts, we are on the right track in pillar 1,” he said, referring to the US ability to supply three Virginia-class submarines to Australia.
Australia has pumped billions of dollars into preparing HMAS Stirling for the Western Submarine Rotation Force; this was the largest effort in preparation to support nuclear-powered ships.
Hosting the boats is part of AUKUS, which aims to arm the Australian navy with nuclear-powered submarines by early next decade.
The $368 billion deal is central to Australia’s 21st century defense strategy and aims to deter China’s growing military aggression in the region.
In his written statement to committee members, Admiral Paparo warned that China aims to “project its power beyond its immediate geography to determine the rules of every relationship around the world.”
