澳大利亚国防工业部长帕特·康罗伊宣布，美国核潜艇在西澳大利亚斯特林海军基地的轮换部署将在2032年结束[1]。这一被称为"时间限制轮换"的计划自2027年起实施，承诺期为5年[1]。康罗伊强调，轮换部署中的潜艇不会全年驻扎在斯特林基地[1]。他目前正在华盛顿与五角大楼高级官员就AUKUS潜艇项目进行讨论[1]。
2032年后，澳大利亚自主研发的核潜艇将接替美国弗吉尼亚级潜艇[1]。澳大利亚潜艇局预计美国和英国核潜艇在"时间限制轮换"结束后仍将访问斯特林基地[1]。康罗伊同时宣布了一份价值200万美元的合同，用于澳大利亚钢铁产品在美国潜艇中的应用[1]。
Australia's Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy has announced that the rotational deployment of US nuclear submarines at HMAS Stirling naval base in Western Australia will conclude in 2032.[1] The rotation, officially termed SRF-West, is scheduled to commence in 2027 as a five-year commitment, after which Australian-developed nuclear submarines are expected to assume the role.[1] Conroy made the announcement while in Washington meeting with senior Pentagon officials to discuss the AUKUS submarine initiative.[1]
The time-limited nature of the rotation means the US Virginia-class submarines will not be permanently stationed at Stirling base.[1] However, Australia's Submarine Institute has indicated that American and British nuclear submarines are anticipated to continue visiting Stirling after the SRF-West deployment concludes.[1] Additionally, the US Congress has approved decisions allowing Virginia-class submarines to carry tactical nuclear weapons beginning in 2032.[1]
During his Washington visit, Conroy announced a A$2 million contract involving Australian steel products for use in US submarines.[1]