Australia signs new Attack class submarine design contract

Momentum continues to build on Australia's Attack class program with the Submarine Design Contract now also signed.

It comes less than a month after the Strategic Partnering Agreement was signed, and just days after the signing of the Framework Agreement between Naval Group Australia and ASC.

Minister for Defence, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, said the signing of the contract between the Commonwealth and Naval Group is the first contract inked under the SPA.

“The detailed architecture for the hull, including the placement of main systems, will be developed under this key contract,” said Minister Pyne.

“It’s great to see our Attack class submarines well and truly taking shape.”

The Minister for Defence Industry, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds, said the Submarine Design Contract is worth $605 million and will see design work progress through to 2021.

“The timeframe for the Submarine Design Contract takes into account the detailed design work required, ensuring we have a mature design which avoids costly rework,” Minister Reynolds said. 

“This will help deliver a sovereign, regionally superior submarine capability, which will be built, operated and sustained in Australia.”

The contract is part of the $50 billion investment in the Attack class outlined in the 2016 Integrated Investment Program.

It’s estimated the program will generate an annual average of around 2,800 jobs.

Source: Defence Media