U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Australia -- A United States Navy submarine and its 135-person crew has arrived in Perth, Western Australia for a joint interoperability training exercise with the Royal Australian Navy.
The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Mississippi arrived at HMAS Stirling Naval Base near Rockingham following routine operations in the Indo-Pacific region.
U.S. Ambassador Caroline Kennedy said the USS Mississippi’s visit shows the thriving and enduring relationship between the U.S. and Australia.
“Our countries may be far apart but nothing connects us more closely than the ocean,” Ambassador Kennedy said.
“Our sailors train together, sail together and share a commitment to peace, freedom and the rule of law. We’re grateful to Australia for welcoming us so warmly to Perth for generations and look forward to many more visits.”
Chief of Navy, Admiral Mark Hammond, AM Royal Australian Navy said: “After a busy year operating with the U.S. Navy across the Indo-Pacific, it’s a privilege to welcome our friends to Western Australia.”
“We value every opportunity for our Navies to interact, train, and operate together. Our Navies have a proud history of working together in peace and war, it is a privilege to be able to support this enduring friendship.”
U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Rick Seif, commander, Submarine Group 7 said: “This port visit is an example of the enduring alliance that exists between the U.S. and Australia, and it highlights the importance of our undersea forces in our shared dedication to regional stability.”
“I know the crew of Mississippi is excited to work with our Australian counterparts, and they are even more excited to experience this beautiful country.”
Commander Edward Barry, USS Mississippi’s commanding officer, said his crew is looking forward to engaging with their Royal Australian Navy counterparts.
“The United States and Australia have an incredible friendship and we’re excited to work with our allies to enhance safety and security across the region,” Cmdr. Barry said.
“After weeks at sea, my crew is also eager to enjoy Perth’s beaches, restaurants and hospitality.”
A number of crewmembers will also volunteer in the community while in WA.
This visit follows the USS Frank Cable and USS Springfield which had scheduled port visits in Perth in April 2022.
Facts
- Measures 114 metres (377-feet) long and weighs more than 7,800 U.S. tons
- Submarine was commissioned on June 2, 2012
- Virginia-class, nuclear-powered submarine