THE US Navy is considering increasing its presence in the Top End, a move that could see US ships based in Darwin. Neither the Territory’s ­Defence Industry minister nor the Australian Navy commented on the US plans. The Australian Navy also did not respond to questions about the US Navy’s plans, ­including whether nuclear-powered ships would enter the harbour, or whether public consultation would take place over an increased US Navy presence in Darwin.

He described the Marines’ presence in Darwin as being key to the US military’s operations in the Pacific. “It’s a big deal and a big part of our alliance in the Asia-Pacific,” he said. “We’re working towards a marine unit to be working out of Darwin by the next decade.”

TONY Abbott wants the navy’s new amphibious assault ships ­fitted out to carry Joint Strike Fighters — effectively turning the giant vessels into aircraft carriers. The Prime Minister’s proposal would bring Australia into line with the US, Britain and a number of other nations that plan to operate JSFs from their assault ships. It is understood Mr ­Abbott has instructed planners working on his defence white paper to examine the possibility of putting a squadron of 12 of the short take-off and vertical landing version of the JSFs — the F-35B — on to the ships.

The Royal Australian Navy has not had an aircraft carrier since HMAS Melbourne was decommissioned in 1982. Having landing ships carrying fixed-wing aircraft would bring a new strategic dimension to the region.