US Navy Sets Sail Down Under: Historic Commissioning of Warship in Australia Strengthens Alliance in Face of China's Rise
The United States commissions its first warship in a foreign port as the USS Canberra joins active service in Sydney, Australia, marking strengthened military ties between the two nations amid increased regional challenges. The event coincides with multinational military exercises and the AUKUS project.
In a historic event, the United States has commissioned a warship in Sydney, Australia, marking the first time a US Navy vessel has joined active service at a foreign port.
The commissioning ceremony for the Independence-class littoral combat ship, named USS Canberra, took place at an Australian naval base on Sydney Harbour. This move comes as the US and Australia aim to strengthen their military ties in response to China's expanding regional reach.
The commissioning of the USS Canberra in Australian waters demonstrates the shared commitment of both nations to upholding the rules-based order.
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted that the ship's design by local industry in Western Australia and its naming after the Australian cruiser HMAS Canberra symbolize a significant milestone in the history of the US Navy.
The event coincides with the biennial Talisman Sabre military exercises, which involve participants from Canada, Fiji, France, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the Republic of Korea, Tonga, and the UK. Germany's participation for the first time underscores its efforts to assert its presence in the region.
The military exercises encompass various activities, including mock land and air combat, amphibious landings, and even the launch of a surface-to-ship missile by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). The JGSDF's test in Australian waters represents a significant milestone for their capabilities.
Furthermore, the commissioning ceremony of the USS Canberra comes as part of the AUKUS project, where the US and UK have agreed to assist Australia in acquiring a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. This project aims to bolster Australia's defense capabilities in the face of escalating challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
The USS Canberra's integration with the Royal Australian Navy showcases the united front of both countries and their allies in the Indo-Pacific region. Adm. Mike Gilday emphasized this integration as the ship was commissioned into service, further solidifying the close military relationship between the US and Australia.
While the immediate plan is for the USS Canberra to return home to San Diego, it will eventually be equipped with specialized anti-surface warfare and mine countermeasure systems before its first deployment. The ship will likely operate under Destroyer Squadron Seven (DESRON 7) and may be based out of Singapore.
Overall, the commissioning of the USS Canberra highlights the deepening partnership between the US and Australia in the face of China's regional expansion. It also signifies the growing presence and involvement of other countries in the Indo-Pacific region's security landscape, further shaping the geopolitical dynamics in the area.