HMAS Stirling near Perth is preparing to host at least one British and as many as four American nuclear-powered submarines on rotation from 2027. The Submarine Rotational Force-West is expected to operate through 2032 as a central element of AUKUS.
Former Australian naval officer and senator Rex Patrick argues that a larger role beyond 2032 could make the base a priority target for Chinese or Russian nuclear forces. He also warns that the arrangement may draw Australia more deeply into any conflict involving Taiwan.
The United States sees Stirling as an alternative to Guam that lies farther from the immediate weapons zone around Taiwan. Plans include a floating dry dock for Virginia-class submarines in the early 2030s and a Naval Support Activity to sustain the force.
The projected American community is expected to rise from about 1,200 people to 2,300 by 2030, including service members, civilians, contractors and families. Critics say that scale and future weapons options resemble a permanent base, despite official descriptions of a rotational presence.
Australia's submarine agency says the facilities will remain Australian and rejects the claim that foreign bases are being established. Defense Minister Richard Marles presents the buildup as essential for sovereign capability, while local critics seek a public inquiry into nuclear safety, treaty obligations and the strategic risk to Perth.
