Mississippi flows into Western Australia

Minister for Defence and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles announced on Monday that the nuclear-powered fast attack submarine USS Mississippi and its crew had been welcomed for a visit at Fleet Base West, HMAS Stirling in WA.

CAPTION: United States Navy Virginia-class submarine USS Mississippi arrives at Fleet Base West, Rockingham, Western Australia, for a routine port visit. Photo by Chief Petty Officer Yuri Ramsey.

The Virginia-class submarine is in Australia for a routine visit to provide respite for the crew.

Mr Marles said the visit reflected the ongoing strength of Australia’s alliance with the United States and built on previous visits by nuclear-powered submarines from our AUKUS partners.

“Since 1960, Australia has hosted more than 285 visits by UK and US nuclear-powered vessels with more than 1840 total days in port,” Mr Marles said.

“USS Mississippi is the second US nuclear-powered vessel to visit Australia in 2022, following a visit by the USS Springfield in April.

“I had the opportunity to tour the USS Mississippi as part of my visit to Pearl Harbour in Hawaii last month, alongside US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

“It is a pleasure to welcome the crew to Western Australia this week, for this routine visit.

“Their stay in WA will provide those on board with much needed respite as they continue to ensure a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

Chief of Navy Admiral Mark Hammond said that after a busy year operating with the US Navy across the Indo-Pacific, it was a privilege to welcome our friends to Western Australia.

“We value every opportunity for our Navies to interact, train, and operate together,” Admiral Hammond said.

“Australia and the United States have a proud history of working together in peace and war, and it is a privilege to be able to support this enduring friendship.”

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