An arms company has been selected to spearhead the identification of Australian firms that can bolster the supply chain for the nation’s ambitious submarine and aircraft carrier initiatives in collaboration with the United Kingdom and the United States. H&B Defence will undertake a comprehensive evaluation of potential suppliers specializing in various essential domains, including castings and forgings, precision machining, parts fabrication, and composite and glass-reinforced plastic.
This initiative is part of the AUKUS partnership and aims to advance the first three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines. The process of shortlisting capable small and medium enterprises is set to commence within the month, leading to a rigorous assessment of technical competencies.
Beyond supplier identification, H&B Defence will play a vital role in enhancing workforce skills, developing nuclear infrastructure, overseeing submarine defueling and decommissioning, managing nuclear waste, and ensuring sustained operational capabilities.
Andrew Cridland, a non-executive director of H&B, emphasized the significance of securing this contract, stating it represents a long-term commitment to delivering innovative and reliable solutions that bolster Australia’s national security and that of its allies.
H&B Defence is a joint venture formed by defense industry leaders HII and Babcock. The AUKUS submarine program has recently evolved, establishing a framework for information exchange, supply chain coordination, and workforce training. As part of these developments, plans have been confirmed for a new shipyard in Osborne, New South Wales, dedicated to the construction of these submarines.
Furthermore, the UK has taken the lead on assessment trials for the Hugin Superior autonomous system, which will serve as a mine countermeasure for the alliance and contribute to subsea infrastructure security. Once these trials are completed, the drone is expected to enhance surveillance capabilities across the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions.
