The nuclear-powered, Virginia-class vessel, with more than 130 crew members, is docked at HMAS Stirling Naval Base on Garden Island, near Rockingham.
It is the first Virginia-class submarine to visit Australia since the AUKUS announcement in March detailing Australia’s optimal pathway to acquiring nuclear-powered submarines.
During the visit, U.S. crew members will welcome Royal Australian Navy submariners on board to see the vessel’s operations and technology firsthand.
U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy said the North Carolina’s visit demonstrates America’s unwavering commitment to its allies and partners.
“Our partnership is active and evident every day in Australia, and even more so under AUKUS. The USS North Carolina’s visit builds on a strong tradition of Australia welcoming U.S. sailors to its shores, advances our shared security goals in the region, and exemplifies the immense friendship and trust between our countries.”
Source : Naval News
