The move follows a trilateral Joint Statement issued on May 30 confirming that key milestones continue to be met for Submarine Rotational Force-West. SRF-West will support the rotational presence of U.S. and U.K. nuclear-powered fast attack submarines at Australia’s HMAS Stirling base in Western Australia.
Naval Support Activity Stirling will provide support services and programs for U.S. service members, civilian personnel, contractors and their families assigned to SRF-West. The U.S. Navy said the activity will help support the readiness of rotational submarine forces.
“Establishment of NSA Stirling with our AUKUS partners demonstrates our command mission to support the Fleet, warfighter, and family,” said Vice Adm. Scott Gray, Commander, Navy Installations Command. “By providing essential services to U.S. personnel and their families, NSA Stirling will enhance rotational submarine force readiness.”
Navy Region Japan was tasked in October 2024 to establish NSA Stirling. The Navy said SRF-West is being established with the approval of and at the invitation of the Australian Government.
“We are currently in the early stages of establishing NSA Stirling,” said Rear Adm. Ian Johnson, commander of Navy Region Japan. “While there is still much work ahead, we are confident in our ability to accomplish this task through strong collaboration with our AUKUS partners.”
NSA Stirling will connect U.S. personnel to housing, healthcare, childcare and recreation services. The Navy said those services are intended to support the well-being of U.S. service members, civilians and their families during their assignment.
The new support activity expands the infrastructure needed for AUKUS submarine cooperation in Western Australia. It is intended to provide the services required for U.S. personnel supporting SRF-West at HMAS Stirling.
