“As our Navy personnel gain experience on visiting nuclear-powered submarines, we are ensuring our defence capability is in the most knowledgeable and trusted hands.” I am proud to see this continue as we acquire our first Australian nuclear-powered submarines.” “Western Australia plays a critical role in the defence of our nation. Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. The Albanese Labor Government will work with the Western Australian Government to develop a skills and training program, leveraging existing relationships with WA vocational and tertiary institutions. We recognise the need to attract, develop and retain a highly-skilled workforce in Western Australia to underpin this project. Upgrades to HMAS Stirling over the next 10 years will include wharf upgrades, operational maintenance, logistics and training facilities, as well as opportunities for supporting infrastructure outside HMAS Stirling.Īdditionally, 500 direct jobs will be created to sustain the SRF-West initiative over the period 2027-2032. Supporting what will be the biggest capability acquisition in our history, will require record investment. From the early 2030s HMAS Stirling will house Australia’s first sovereign SSN capability – the US Virginia class submarines.This initiative, known as ‘Submarine Rotational Force-West’ (SRF-West), will develop Australia’s ability to operate, maintain and safely steward our future SSNs by deploying our Navy personnel on visiting UK and US boats where they will gain at-sea experience with naval nuclear propulsion. As early as 2027, HMAS Stirling will host the rotational presence of UK and US nuclear-powered submarines.This will further strengthen Australia’s experience with SSNs in Western Australia. Beginning this year, Western Australia will receive more frequent port visits by United States nuclear-powered submarines, with the United Kingdom to follow from 2026.Importantly, this work begins right away, with the benefits to flow-on for decades to come. Over the next decade, the Australian Government will invest up to $8 billion to expand HMAS Stirling, creating around 3,000 direct jobs. This multi-generational undertaking to acquire and operate conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered sovereign submarines will see significant benefits for jobs and the economy in the West. Western Australia will be at the forefront of Australia’s AUKUS Pathway, continuing its proud tradition as the home of Australian submarines.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |