The Federal Government says it has postponed this year's deployment of US Marines to Darwin because of restrictions designed to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Key points: About 2,500 US troops were scheduled to arrive in the NT in the next few weeks

About 2,500 US troops were scheduled to arrive in the NT in the next few weeks The Defence Minister said a possible later deployment would be discussed

The Defence Minister said a possible later deployment would be discussed The NT Chief Minister said the Marines would be welcomed back after the crisis

The 2020 rotation was expected to bring about 2,500 US troops to the Top End in the next few weeks, a similar number to last year's peak rotational force.

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said Australia and the US would discuss options for a possible later deployment, which would be subject to conditions improving and the deployment's viability.

"Any decision in relation to the 2020 Marine Rotational Force — Darwin (MRF-D) in no way affects Australia's commitment to host next year's, or subsequent, MRF-D rotations," Ms Reynolds said in a statement.

Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said he spoke with the Defence Minister about the matter over the weekend.

"This is the right decision," he said

"When we're on the other side of this crisis, I know Territorians will welcome back the Marines with open arms."

The Marines were expected to arrive in early April. ( Supplied: Australian Defence Force )

Ms Reynolds said she would continue her discussions with the Chief Minister.

"I remain fully engaged with Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner on this matter," she said.

"I have also reiterated to Chief Minister Gunner that the Morrison Government is committed to supporting the Australian defence industry during this difficult time, including businesses in the Northern Territory."

How do I get tested in the NT? If you can't contact or get to your GP, but you have the symptoms, you should call 1800 008 002

If you can't contact or get to your GP, but you have the symptoms, you should call 1800 008 002 This is a dedicated NT-wide coronavirus (COVID-19) number for people who need to arrange testing only

This is a dedicated NT-wide coronavirus (COVID-19) number for people who need to arrange testing only If you live in Darwin and need to arrange testing, call the Public Health Unit on 8922 8044

If you live in Darwin and need to arrange testing, call the Public Health Unit on 8922 8044 Patients who are tested should remain isolated at home until they receive their test results

Patients who are tested should remain isolated at home until they receive their test results For general advice, Territorians can call 1800 020 080 Latest information from SecureNT website

In a statement last week, an Australian Defence Force spokesperson said the department would continue to follow advice issued by the Health Department on COVID-19 and implement preventative measures.

"This is important for the protection of Defence personnel and critical operations, as well as for the wellbeing of the Australian public more broadly," the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said the joint US Defence facility Pine Gap was also adapting its policy and procedures to comply with Federal Government restrictions.