In a boost for Tasmania’s defence sector, Navantia Australia is set to establish a Naval Research Centre at the Australian Maritime College (AMC) in Newnham.
This development, positioned within Tasmania’s Defence and Maritime precinct, marks a substantial step forward for maritime research and defence innovation in the region.
The Naval Research Centre, an initiative spearheaded by Navantia Australia, a primary design contractor for the Royal Australian Navy, aims to foster collaboration between academic experts and students, enabling them to conduct specialised research and design projects that support the nation’s naval and defence capabilities.
Premier and Minister for Trade and Major Investment, Jeremy Rockliff, highlighted the strong partnership between Tasmania and Navantia Australia as a crucial element of the state’s robust defence industry sector.
“Navantia Australia’s decision to establish their Naval Research Centre at AMC is a significant milestone for both Navantia Australia and the Precinct, which will strengthen Australia’s defence and maritime shipbuilding capabilities,” Premier Rockliff said.
“This will also support our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future to create more jobs and help keep our economy strong, with Tasmanian manufacturers playing an important role in Navantia Australia’s supply chains.”
The establishment of this research centre is a testament to the Tasmanian Government’s long-standing support for UTAS’s vision to create a Defence and Maritime Innovation and Design Precinct, which is now thriving with substantial national and international interest.
“Major national and international defence contractors are seeking out the Tasmanian Defence Precinct, to utilise our specialist maritime facilities and expertise to design the best and safest ships for our naval personnel,” Rockliff added.
Navantia Australia Managing Director Israel Lozano noted AMC’s unmatched offerings as the National Institute for maritime education, training, and research, emphasising the College’s role in supporting Australia’s naval capabilities.
“The Australian Maritime College has specialist maritime research and learning facilities, some of which are the most advanced in the Southern Hemisphere,” Lozano stated.
“Through the Naval Research Centre, students will be able to utilise these facilities to undertake cutting edge research for the defence industry.”
