Why the Royal Navy's only active SSN nuclear submarine is in Australia - HMS Anson deployed as 'showcase'

HMS Anson has been deployed to Australia for what has been described as ‘an historic visit to strengthen the UK’s commitment to the security of the Indo-Pacific’. The vessel docked at HMAS Stirling on a diplomatic visit to bolster the AUKUS alliance between Australia, the UK, and the United States.

Her departure means no other vessel of her class is in UK waters, with HMS Astute, Ambush, Artful, and Audacious, all on the side-lines. The Royal Navy said the visit is a crucial part of the ongoing process of supporting Australia to develop the skills and capabilities necessary to operate, maintain and steward conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

Second Sea Lord Vice Admiral Paul Beattie said: “It is a privilege to welcome HMS Anson to Australian waters for the first time, standing alongside our Royal Australian Navy and United States Navy partners. This visit represents far more than a port call, it is a demonstration of the deep trust, shared purpose, and collective ambition at the heart of AUKUS. Together, we are forging the interoperability and cooperation that will define our partnership for decades to come.”

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A series of high-profile engagement activities are scheduled to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the Royal Australian Navy. The submarine, which stopped in Gibraltar before making a non-stop transit through the Mediterranean Sea and Suez Canal, will also undergo a maintenance period with the Royal Australian Navy while she is in Western Australia.

Commanding Officer of the A-boat, Commander Aaron Williams, said: “The crew of HMS Anson are excited to be in Australia. Travelling a distance unsupported of over 8,000 nautical miles, we are ready to showcase what HMS Anson has to offer. We are looking forward to conducting a short maintenance period, working closely with both our Australian and American allies, and engaging with the local community.”

The Royal Navy added that AUKUS will expand the submarine fleet with up to 12 new attack boats, and deliver a new class of nuclear-powered submarines to Australia. The new vessels will be the most powerful attack boats ever operated by the Royal Navy Submarine Service, and will replace the seven Astute-class submersibles.

While the SSN is in Australia, the navies will conduct trials of innovative technologies, including an AUKUS developed AI algorithm aboard an Australian P-8 reconnaissance aircraft which is designed to collect and analyse undersea data. It is estimated that AUKUS will bring 7,000 additional jobs to the UK, while Australia estimates 20,000 direct jobs will be crated over the next 30 years.

Defence secretary John Healey: “I’m proud of the exceptional UK and Australian personnel and our industries who are working together to drive forward our AUKUS partnership with the US. We’re all in and full steam ahead - creating good jobs and boosting security and deterrence.”

Here are several pictures showing HMS Anson’s arrival.