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U.S. Navy Revives Submarine Squadron After 14 Years, Deploys It to Australia
The United States Navy has officially reactivated Submarine Squadron 3 (CSS-3) after a 14-year hiatus, marking a major milestone in the implementation of the AUKUS. Rather than returning to its former home in Hawaii, the squadron will now be based at HMAS Stirling, where it will support future rotations of U.S. and British nuclear-powered attack submarines.
Originally decommissioned in 2012 as part of a force restructuring, CSS-3 has been brought back to establish the command, logistics, maintenance, and operational framework for the Submarine Rotational Force–West (SRF-West). Beginning in 2027, the initiative will see U.S. and U.K. fast-attack submarines regularly deploy from Western Australia, significantly expanding allied undersea presence in the Indo-Pacific.
Personnel assigned to the reactivated squadron will work closely with the Royal Australian Navy to develop maintenance capabilities, logistics support, infrastructure, and workforce training. The effort is intended to prepare Australia for operating and sustaining nuclear-powered submarines under the first pillar of the AUKUS agreement.
The reactivation also reflects the growing strategic importance of Western Australia. Located along key sea lanes linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, HMAS Stirling provides an ideal forward operating location for allied submarines, enabling faster response times and greater operational reach across the Indo-Pacific region.
Senior U.S. Navy leaders have described the move as a significant enhancement to regional undersea operations. By stationing a dedicated submarine squadron closer to potential areas of operation, the Navy expects to improve readiness, increase logistical efficiency, and strengthen coordination with Australian and British partners.
The return of Submarine Squadron 3 highlights the accelerating implementation of AUKUS, transforming the agreement from a long-term submarine acquisition program into an operational alliance with a permanent undersea support structure. As preparations continue for regular submarine rotations in 2027, the new squadron will play a central role in reinforcing allied maritime security and maintaining a credible undersea deterrent throughout the Indo-Pacific.
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SAA Members,
Michael Manfield (CAPT, Rtd) a submariner has done a lot of work to get the Repatriation Medical Authority to conduct focused investigations into:
cervical spondylosis;
thoracolumbar intervertebral disc prolapse; and
thoracolumbar spondylosis.
To assist the Repatriation Medical Authority in these investigations, it has asked persons and organisations to make written submissions to the Medical Authority concerning these issues that are outlined in the attached documents. I would imagine there a many submariners have or are suffering from one or more of the issues outlined. I am sure if this SOP was to be successful it would assist many the submarine community.
Cheers
David Strangward, AM
SAA National President
Follow the link to DVA news for additional information or download the PDF links
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DVA NEWS
Thoracolumbar spondylosis is an age-related, degenerative condition of the mid-back and lower back (thoracic and lumbar spine).
It involves the gradual wear and tear of intervertebral discs, facet joints, and ligaments, which can lead to stiffness, localized back pain, and potential nerve compression.
Key Characteristics What Happens: Cartilage wears down, intervertebral discs thin or bulge, and bony projections (osteophytes or bone spurs) can form.
Symptoms: While many cases are asymptomatic, it can cause chronic back stiffness, mid-to-lower back pain, and in severe cases, nerve-related referred pain or numbness in the legs.
Causes: Primarily caused by natural aging, though repetitive strain, inactivity, obesity, and prior spinal injuries can accelerate the condition
However In our Members it can be caused by sitting on the planes for hours during two watches, standing in cramped conditions next to the CSU electronics cabinet. Loading the tower with gash to ditch gash overboard. Lifting heavy weights and walking engine heads. strong backs installation. loading and removal of shore power cables, and carring the outboard trunking around the fin
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Subcon 2026 June update
It is with deep sadness that the Submarines Association of Australia (SAA) advises
members of the passing of former member Clive “Polly” Lloyd,
who died in North Queensland in early June this year.
Vale Clive"Polly" Lloyd
The SAA is very sad to announce the passing of Paul Trevor Meakin on the afternoon of 20 June 2026
condolen to Andy and Chris
An Obit for Paul has now been posted along with Funeral arrangements.
Vale Paul Trevor Meakin Rev Live stream Pual meakin
Update Vale John David Parker
New Submarine Videos
The Flood HMAS Dechaineux part one
HMAS Dechaineux part two
HMAS Dechaineux Flood part Three
HMAS Dechaineux part four
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