Canberra has entered into a collaboration with Leidos’ Australian segment, Gibbs and Cox, to spearhead the early design phase of a contingency dry dock that will cater to its future Virginia-class submarines. This initiative is part of the trilateral AUKUS security pact involving Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The planned floating dry dock is set to be constructed in Western Australia and is deemed essential as Australia prepares for the arrival of its nuclear-powered fleet in the 2030s. The dry dock will enable emergency, unscheduled, or short-notice repair and maintenance capabilities in advance of established depot-level services later in the decade.
Upon its completion, the dry dock is expected to serve the AUKUS member nations while adhering to domestic regulatory requirements and upholding international nuclear safety and related obligations.
This project is a crucial aspect of the Australian government’s broader commitment to enhancing the Royal Australian Navy’s HMAS Stirling base and renovating the Henderson Defence Precinct in Western Australia. These upgrades are focused on bolstering Australia’s sovereign shipbuilding and submarine sustainment capabilities.
Australian Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, “AUKUS is happening right now. The development of infrastructure at Henderson will position Western Australia at the centre of our submarine sustainment enterprise.” He highlighted that this project is another testament to AUKUS facilitating long-term industrial capabilities and creating highly skilled jobs for Australians.
In a noteworthy development, Australian steelmaker Bisalloy has received its first purchase order from Virginia fleet developer General Dynamics Electric Boat. This order will pave the way for supplying HY80 submarine-grade steel for the US Navy’s Virginia-class submarines, marking a historic first for the incorporation of Australian-made steel into the program.
