The Australian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong and adaptable submarine capability by launching an independent assurance activity to guide the life-of-type extension of the Collins class submarine fleet.
Australia’s shift towards conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines relies on the continuous availability of the Collins class submarine capability during this transitional phase.
This necessity prompts the extension of the Collins class submarines’ operational lives, the government revealed in a media release.
The purpose of this assurance activity is to assess the readiness of defence and industry to carry out the life-of-type extension for the Collins class submarines.
Importantly, this assurance initiative will not disrupt the ongoing work by defence and industry to sustain and extend the life of the Collins class fleet.
Gloria Valdez, a member of the Naval Shipbuilding Expert Advisory Panel, is leading this independent assurance activity.
A classified report detailing the findings is anticipated to be presented to the Australian Government in the second quarter of 2024.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy emphasised the importance of the Collins class submarines and its capability.
“The Collins class submarines remain one of the most capable conventionally powered submarines in the world. The life-of-type extension of the Collins class is essential to the maintenance of Australia’s submarine capability as we transition from conventional to nuclear-powered submarines,” Conroy explained.
He concluded, “This independent assurance activity seeks to ensure the life-of-type extension is delivered in the most effective and efficient manner, guaranteeing Australia retains an enduring, potent and agile submarine capability.”
