HMS Anson has made its historic arrival in Western Australia, marking a landmark event in Royal Navy operations. This is the first time a nuclear-powered submarine has conducted maintenance work in Australia, underscoring the strategic AUKUS partnership between Australia, the UK, and the US. The entry of Anson into Australian waters also reflects Australia’s commitment to develop capabilities for operating conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.
Significant Voyage Details
The submarine departed from Gibraltar on January 23, navigating an impressive 8,200 nautical miles over the course of a month. Following this lengthy transit, Anson docked at HMAS Stirling, although its arrival was delayed due to infrastructure preparations for the annual Rottnest Channel Swim, which was ultimately cancelled due to inclement weather.
Strategic Timing and Implications
The arrival of HMS Anson in Australia coincides with rising international tensions, particularly concerning Russia. This deployment raises questions about the UK’s naval resources, as Anson is currently the only operational Royal Navy attack submarine available.
- Political signals from London suggest a reluctance to engage in Middle Eastern conflicts.
- The deployment to Australia appears counterintuitive amidst escalating tensions in Europe.
- Critics are concerned that significant UK assets are being positioned far from home waters.
Maintenance Period and Personnel Integration
Over the next few weeks, about 100 military and civilian personnel will conduct a Submarine Maintenance Period (SMP) on HMS Anson. This collaborative effort involves personnel from:
- Royal Navy (RN)
- Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA)
- Royal Australian Navy (RAN)
- ASC Pty Ltd
- Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard
This venture is groundbreaking, as it is the first maintenance of its kind conducted by the UK for a nuclear-powered submarine outside its own waters.
Building Local Expertise
The maintenance task supports the development of essential skills within Australia’s naval workforce. Two RAN officers are currently embedded on board Anson to gain operational experience. Additionally, over 50 Australians are engaged with the UK Defence Nuclear Enterprise.
The RN has provided crucial nuclear safety training for more than 950 personnel linked to the Australian Submarine Agency. These exchanges highlight the significance of both personnel readiness and technological capabilities under the AUKUS framework.
Future Collaborations and Exercises
During Anson’s visit, AUKUS allies will engage in activities related to both Pillar I and Pillar II of the agreement. This includes:
- Testing the interoperability of the C2 Robotics Speartooth Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (LUUV) with HMS Anson.
- Refining artificial intelligence algorithms for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) with data obtained from Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft.
The collaboration underscores the importance of evolving Australia’s industrial capabilities, regulatory systems, and supply chains necessary for the safe operation of nuclear-powered submarines.
