High-tech firm Safran Electronics and Defense Australasia has won a subcontract from Lockheed Martin Australia to design three major Combat System components for the Attack Class submarines.
The $36.77 million contract, which runs until May 2023, will see Safran deliver the preliminary and detailed designs for the combat system’s optronics search and attack mast, navigation radar and navigation data distribution components.
Safran – which will subcontract two Australian companies, Acacia Systems and Thomas Global Systems, for the design and development of software and hardware, respectively – said the contract will result in more than 11 full-time positions being created and sustained locally across its operations and partners.
Defence Minister Linda Reynolds the subcontract was the first awarded by Lockheed Martin Australia as the Combat System Integrator for the Attack Class.
“We are pleased to announce Lockheed Martin Australia has signed a subcontract with Safran Electronics and Defense Australasia for the design of components for the Attack Class submarines,” the Minister said.
“This will support the operation and sustainment of the Attack Class while maximising the involvement of Australian industry.”
Safran Electronics & Defense Australasia CEO, Alexis de Pelleport, said the contract will strengthen the company’s footprint and workforce in Australia.
“The contract with Lockheed Martin Australia and the Department of Defence will allow us to meet our shared objective of supporting local employment and developing Australian expertise at our Botany facility and through our local partners,” he said.
“We are pleased to be working with Lockheed Martin Australia and the Commonwealth to deliver a superior submarine fleet for the region.”
Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand Chief Executive, Joe North, said he looked forward to working with the Australian team to support the Royal Australian Navy with enhanced sovereign capability.
“Lockheed Martin Australia, in concert with the Department of Defence, is committed to maximising opportunities for Australian industry involvement through all phases of the Future Submarine Program,” he said.
“Safran represents the international benchmark in submarine optronics and navigation systems, and we are honoured to welcome the company and its partners to our Australian combat system team.”
