Navy Establishes NSA Stirling in Australia Published June 8, 2026 By Commander, Naval Forces Japan The Navy established a new naval support activity in Perth, Australia, May 30, as part of AUKUS, the enhanced trilateral security partnership between the U.S., Australia and the United Kingdom. Photo Details / Download Hi-Res This move follows a trilateral joint statement announced the same day, confirming the accomplishment of key milestones for Submarine Rotational Force – West, which will support the rotational presence of U.S. and U.K 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. "Establishment of NSA Stirling with our AUKUS partners demonstrates our command mission to support the fleet, warfighter and family," said U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander of Navy Installations Command. "By providing essential services to U.S. personnel and their families, NSA Stirling will enhance rotational submarine force readiness." Mooring Ops Sailors assigned to the submarine USS Minnesota conduct mooring operations at HMAS Stirling, Australia, Feb. 25, 2025. The Minnesota arrived in Western Australia, kicking off the first of two planned U.S. submarine visits to HMAS Stirling in 2025. Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | 3 images | Mooring Ops Mooring Ops Sailors assigned to the submarine USS Minnesota conduct mooring operations at HMAS Stirling, Australia, Feb. 25, 2025. The Minnesota arrived in Western Australia, kicking off the first of two planned U.S. submarine visits to HMAS Stirling in 2025. 1 of 3 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Mooring Ops Sailors assigned to the submarine USS Minnesota conduct mooring operations at HMAS Stirling, Australia, Feb. 25, 2025. 2 of 3 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Moor Prep The submarine USS Minnesota prepares to moor at HMAS Stirling, Australia, Feb. 25, 2025. 3 of 3 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Navy Region Japan was tasked in October 2024 to stand up the support activity. The submarine rotational force was established with the approval of the Australian government. "We are currently in the early stages of establishing NSA Stirling," said U.S. Navy 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 provide robust support for U.S. service members, civilians and their families, connecting U.S. personnel to quality housing, healthcare, childcare and recreation to ensure their well-being during their assignment.