USS Colorado announced as first US Navy Virginia Class submarine assigned to SRF-West

From late 2027, USS Colorado will become the first submarine to operate as part of SRF-West from HMAS Stirling. SRF-W will eventually comprise up to four United States Navy Virginia Class submarines and one United Kingdom Astute Class submarine.

SRF-West will accelerate Australia’s readiness to own, operate, maintain and regulate a sovereign, conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability, as well as support submarine deployments by expanding maintenance options and sustainment infrastructure in the region for AUKUS partners, according to a statement from Deputy Prime Minister Marles.

“SRF-West, established at Australia’s invitation and as mutually determined, will operate in accordance with relevant international agreements between and among the United States, Australia, and the UK, including the United States – Australia Force Posture Agreement.

“AUKUS activities associated with SRF-West will be conducted consistent with the AUKUS partners’ respective international obligations, including those under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and Australia’s obligations under the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty (Treaty of Rarotonga).

“The selection of USS Colorado (SSN 788) as the first submarine assigned to SRF-West in 2027 marks a significant milestone for AUKUS Pillar 1 and is a decisive step in strengthening collective deterrence in the Pacific.”

Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Matt Buckley AM CSC RAN said the announcement marked an important milestone for the Royal Australian Navy and Australia’s preparations to operate conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

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“The designation of USS Colorado as the first submarine assigned to Submarine Rotational Force - West is a significant milestone for Australia, our Navy and the AUKUS partnership,” VADM Buckley said.

“For our sailors, this is about working alongside the world’s most experienced nuclear-powered submarine operators and building the skills, knowledge and experience that will underpin Australia’s future conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability.

“The assignment of USS Colorado demonstrates the confidence our AUKUS partners have in our people and our progress and will strengthen our ability to contribute to regional security alongside the United States and the United Kingdom.”

Robert Dougherty

Author

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.

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