Australian officials are preparing for the US to seek ongoing use of HMAS Stirling naval base as part of the AUKUS pact review, which aims to project American military power in the Indo-Pacific amid tensions with China.

Naval expert Jennifer Parker indicates that the US views SRF-West as a long-term strategic benefit of AUKUS, unlikely to be a short-term arrangement.

The Australian government states that SRF-West will not be a foreign military base, maintaining Australia's policy against foreign bases on its soil, and aims to develop sovereign operational capabilities for nuclear submarines.

Former defense official Mike Pezzullo suggests US interests include establishing a long-term operational presence in Western Australia, viewing SRF-West as about power projection rather than just building Australia’s submarine capabilities.

Australian Prime Minister Albanese acknowledged US seeking changes to AUKUS but emphasized working through these in an orderly manner, without pre-empting announcements.

The US may seek to formalize Australia's operational role in potential conflicts and possibly partner with the UK on next-generation submarines like the SSN-AUKUS, scheduled for the late 2030s.

A likely development is the stationing of up to four US nuclear-powered submarines at HMAS Stirling from 2027, with up to 1,000 US troops and their families supporting the Submarine Rotational Force West, making it the second-largest US military footprint in Australia.

US Navy Secretary John Phelan indicated the US wants to clarify ambiguities in the original AUKUS plan during a White House meeting with President Trump and Australian Prime Minister Albanese.

China opposes AUKUS, criticizing it for increasing nuclear proliferation risks and arms race tensions.

The Pentagon-led review, expected to conclude by the end of the year, may lead to a continued US military presence at HMAS Stirling beyond initial plans.