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British nuclear-powered attack sub HMS Anson arrives in Perth for training exercises

HMS Anson's maintenance at HMAS Stirling involves around 100 personnel and includes joint AUKUS exercises to build Australian nuclear submarine expertise, officials said.

  • On February 22, 2026, HMS Anson arrived at HMAS Stirling naval base near Perth for a month-long maintenance visit; the British Astute-class nuclear-powered attack submarine is operated by the Royal Navy.
  • As part of AUKUS preparations, the visit marks the first-ever UK nuclear-powered submarine maintenance in Australia, with around 100 personnel undertaking a Submarine Maintenance Period to build skills and systems.
  • After a month-long transit from Gibraltar, Anson entered HMAS Stirling following an 8,200 nautical mile journey, with two RAN officers embedded aboard and interoperability tests planned using Speartooth Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle and Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon data.
  • Defence Minister Richard Marles said the maintenance will bolster local industry and prepare Australia to operate nuclear submarines, supporting HMAS Stirling as base for Submarine Rotational Force-West starting next year.
  • Analysts warned sending the only available boat overseas invites scrutiny as Anson is reportedly the Royal Navy's only fully operational Astute-class submarine amid readiness concerns and US Virginia-class visits in 2024 and 2025.
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Sydney Morning Herald broke the news in Sydney, Australia on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
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