Legislation clears way for n-submarine import and local build

Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have signed an agreement in Washington (pictured) clearing the way for Australia’s import of Virginia class nuclear submarines.

The agreement for Cooperation Related to Naval Nuclear Propulsion was tabled in federal parliament today.

The agreement also enables the import of equipment for the later construction at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide of SSN-AUKUS class submarines now under development in the UK.

According to a statement the agreement will enable the UK and the US to transfer submarine-specific material and equipment for Australia’s future nuclear‑powered submarines.

Australia is to acquire Virginia class submarines from the US in the 2030s, followed in the 2040s by the construction of Australian SSN‑AUKUS submarines.

It will also enable Australia to prepare for the basing of nuclear powered submarines in Perth as part of Submarine Rotational Force-West at HMAS Stirling from 2027.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles said: “This agreement is an important step towards Australia’s acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy.

“It builds on the significant progress that has already been achieved, including the passing of the US National Defense Authorization Act, the announcement of Australia’s sovereign submarine build and sustainment partners, and the ongoing work to integrate and uplift the industrial bases of all three AUKUS partners.”

BAE Systems and ASC have been selected by the government to build SSN-AUKUS vessels in Adelaide.

Future SSN-AUKUS submarines will be built at Osborne using sealed, welded power units that will not require refuelling over the life cycle of the submarine.

According to the statement: “As a responsible nuclear steward, Australia will manage all waste generated by its own Virginia class and SSN-AUKUS submarines.

“Australia will not process spent nuclear fuel or reactors from the US, UK or other countries.”

Further reading:
ASC can’t build a canoe, now trusted with N-submarines

Picture: Defence/Rodney Braithwaite/Richard Marles, US Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, and British Ambassador to the USA, Dame Karen Pierce, sign the AUKUS Agreement for Cooperation Related to Naval Nuclear Propulsion