The Australian Government is committed to a potent, enduring and agile submarine capability, and will use an independent assurance activity to inform the life-of-type extension of the Collins class submarine fleet.
Australia’s transition to conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines is underpinned by the ongoing availability of the Collins class submarine capability throughout this transition period. This will require the life of the Collins class submarines to be extended.
This assurance activity will provide the Government with advice on Defence and industry’s current preparedness to deliver the Collins class submarine life-of-type extension.
This assurance activity will not delay any of the vital work that Defence and industry are continuing to deliver to sustain and extend the life of the Collins class fleet.
The independent assurance activity is being led by Gloria Valdez, a member of the Naval Shipbuilding Expert Advisory Panel. A classified report will be delivered to the Australian Government in the second quarter of 2024.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:
“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.
“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.”
(Aus DoD)