AUKUS is reshaping the development of HMAS Stirling in Western Australia to facilitate hosting of allied nuclear-powered submarines. Certifying facilities in Darwin Harbour for nuclear-powered warships would deliver redundancy, strengthen Australia’s northern force posture and reinforce our commitment to allies. Darwin already has a validated port safety plan, a prerequisite under Defence’s Operational Safety Management Manual No. Certification would establish a standing capability and safety framework, positioning Darwin as a reliable and regular destination for allied nuclear-powered warships. The nuclear certification decision is a test of Canberra’s willingness to elevate Darwin from a convenient waypoint to a strategic asset.