USS Colorado named first AUKUS nuclear submarine for Australia

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 23:02 · Archive

The USS Colorado, a 10-year-old American Virginia-class nuclear submarine, will deploy to Australia's HMAS Stirling from late 2027 under the AUKUS defence agreement.

Washington has announced that the USS Colorado, a 10-year-old Virginia-class submarine, will be the first American nuclear submarine to deploy to Australia under the AUKUS defence agreement. Defence Minister Richard Marles revealed the decision in a joint statement with US and British counterparts on Tuesday. The submarine will make its home at Western Australia's HMAS Stirling from late 2027, with up to four American submarines and one from the UK set to rotate through the base whilst Australian Defence Force personnel learn to operate nuclear submarines.

The announcement revives controversy sparked in June when it was revealed the US would deliver second-hand vessels rather than the two used submarines and one brand new Virginia-class submarine that were originally planned. Tasmanian independent senator Jacqui Lambie described the change as "trash", but ministers and military officials maintained that used submarines were the best option. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated at the time that AUKUS was going "full-steam ahead" despite modifications to the deal.

The Virginia-class submarine is Washington's most advanced attack submarine, capable of reaching speeds exceeding 46 kilometres per hour, compared with Australia's Collins-class submarines' underwater top speed of 37 kilometres per hour. Mr Marles said the higher-speed, longer-range vessels are needed to help Australia defend its sea trade. The joint statement described the selection as "a decisive step in strengthening collective deterrence in the Pacific".

How it is being reported

• First AUKUS nuclear sub to come to Australia revealedThe USS Colorado will be the first American nuclear submarine to deploy to Australia under the AUKUS agreement.Perth Now · 26 Oct, 22:36
• First AUKUS nuclear sub to come to Australia revealedThe USS Colorado will be the first American nuclear submarine to deploy to Australia under the AUKUS agreement.The West Australian · 26 Oct, 22:36

In this story: USS Colorado · HMAS Stirling · Australia · Richard Marles · Anthony Albanese · Jacqui Lambie · United States · United Kingdom

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