FUTURE SUBMARINE PROJECT STUDY

John Faulkner, Minister for Defence and Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced that Defence will call for Requests for Tender (RFT) to complete a Domestic Design Study for the Future Submarine Project, SEA 1000.

“The procurement of Australia’s future submarine will be Australia’s largest ever single defence project and will form a critical part of the nation’s future defence force,” said Senator Faulkner.

“Investigations by the Future Submarine Project Office to date have covered a number of diverse areas aimed at developing an understanding of the capability of the international submarine industry.”

“This RFT adds to these preliminary investigations by examining Australia’s design capabilities, and forms part of a program of studies being undertaken to support the planning of Australia’s future submarines as outlined in the Defence White Paper,” said Senator Faulkner.

“The RFT would add to current information collected to help shape the approach to the design of the next generation submarine.”

“We are undertaking a number of studies to identify and explore all the options to ensure we have the appropriate design capability to support our submarines throughout their life.  The information we collect through this process will help to develop strategic options for the Government’s consideration,” said Mr Combet.

“This Government is committed to carefully planning for Australia’s next generation of submarines. This is clear through the program of studies and information we are gathering.”

“This request for tender recognises the skills that our Australian domestic defence industry has in the design and development of submarine technologies and systems,” Mr Combet said.

Media contacts:

Colin Campbell (John Faulkner):                         02 6277 7600 or 0407 787 181

Rod Hilton (Greg Combet)                                   02 6277 4771 or 0458 276 619

Defence Media Liaison:                                       02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664