Perth: A British nuclear-powered attack submarine has arrived at a naval base in Western Australia for a month-long visit, marking a significant moment in the AUKUS defense partnership. The HMS Anson's arrival is seen as a testament to the "unwavering" commitment of the United Kingdom to the trilateral security pact with the United States and Australia.

According to Anadolu Agency, the HMS Anson is a 97-meter-long submarine equipped with torpedoes and land-attack missiles and staffed by a crew of approximately 100. This visit marks the first time a British nuclear-powered submarine has docked at Australia's west coast since the AUKUS pathway was fully unveiled in San Diego in 2023.

UK Deputy High Commissioner to Australia Brian Jones stated that the submarine will undergo maintenance and participate in joint exercises, offering a crucial opportunity for Australia to gain experience with nuclear-powered submarines. Australia's Defense Minister Richard Marles described the visit as a "historic step" towards operating and maintaining conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

During the HMS Anson's stay, the UK and Australia are expected to conduct AUKUS Pillar 2 tests within Australian waters. The AUKUS agreement, signed in 2021, outlines that Australia will acquire eight nuclear-powered submarines from the US and UK over the next decade, with the first deliveries anticipated in 2032.

In related developments, Australia announced plans to invest at least $21.2 billion in building a construction yard to facilitate the eventual domestic production of nuclear submarines under the AUKUS agreement.