USS Colorado named as first submarine for Submarine Rotational Force

USS Colorado, a Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, has been designated the first U.S. boat assigned to Submarine Rotational Force-West at HMAS Stirling from late 2027. The AUKUS partners announced the selection in a joint statement as Australia prepares infrastructure, personnel and regulatory arrangements to sustain conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines. The rotational force is planned to accommodate up to four American attack submarines and one British attack submarine in Western Australia. Colorado's assignment precedes Australia's future sovereign submarine capability and is separate from its October 2026 maintenance visit, which provides practical experience ahead of the rotational force's establishment.