Preparing for the build of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarines in South Australia
13 November 2024
The Albanese Government has taken the next significant step towards building the nation’s conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines in South Australia, through a tripartite agreement between the Australian Submarine Agency, ASC and BAE Systems to commence preparatory work for the build of Australia’s SSN-AUKUS submarines.
In March this year, the Albanese Government announced ASC and BAE Systems as our sovereign submarine partners to build Australia’s SSN-AUKUS submarines at the Osborne Naval Shipyard. Today, these world-leading companies have entered into a collaborative mobilisation agreement which will enable planning, workforce development and procurement activities that will set the foundations for this complex, yet vital project.
Through these arrangements, ASC and BAE Systems will:
- develop critical plans and schedules for the mobilisation of the SSN-AUKUS build program;
- invest in developing and growing the submarine workforce;
- procure long lead items;
- undertake risk-reduction activities, initially through validating infrastructure requirements, configuring production, test and evaluation processes and conducting prototyping activities.
The Albanese Government’s commitment to an Australian-built nuclear-powered submarine for the Australian Defence Force will not only keep Australians safe but will also develop and expand our local industrial base and supply chains, supporting Australian jobs, business and infrastructure.
ASC and BAE Systems – and once established, the Joint Venture – will continue to work collaboratively within the wider submarine enterprise as we progress toward our most historic defence capability acquisition yet.
Source: Defence Press Release