Australia has formally launched a $7.8-billion program to extend the service life of its Collins-class submarines, maintaining the fleet’s operability after being commissioned for three decades.
Australia has formally launched an 11-billion Australian dollar ($7.8 billion) program to extend the service life of its Collins-class submarines, maintaining the fleet’s operability after being commissioned for three decades.
The effort will begin by the end of May under the oversight of Canberra’s domestic sustainment partner ASC Pty. Ltd., with work spread across South Australia and Western Australia.
All six diesel-electric submarines will undergo condition-based modernization, including repairs or replacement of aging components and upgrades to key combat systems and weapons.
The program will also include industry consultation, long-term planning, and independent expert review.
The overhaul will start with HMAS Farncomb (S74), the second Collins hull, which has logged the longest deployment time and distance traveled in the series.
The boat will undergo a detailed engineering assessment to determine the extent of repairs required while helping shape future work across the fleet.
Retaining ‘Potent and Highly Capable’ Fleet
The Collins-class revamp is intended to preserve Australia’s undersea defense capability as it adopts the US-built Virginia-class nuclear submarines in the 2030s and the future AUKUS-class boats in the 2040s.
Canberra identified the Collins sustainment effort as a top-priority defense program in 2024, increasing ministerial oversight to support the country’s broader military modernization strategy.
“These decisions reaffirm the Albanese Government’s commitment to keeping the Collins class a potent and highly capable strike and deterrent capability today, and for years to come,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.
“Extending the life of all six Collins class submarines is critical to maintaining that edge.”
