After three long years locked in negotiations, Naval Group and the Australian government have finally signed off on the strategic partnering agreement (SPA) under the Canberra’s Future Submarine Programme.
The $36 billion programme will see the construction of 12 conventional submarines, which will be known as the Attack class once in service with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
However, during a telephone briefing ahead of the official announcement on the signing of the SPA, it emerged that the first-in-class boat, HMAS Attack, may not arrive at the RAN for operational test and evaluation until the 2032/33 timeframe.
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Although both countries still operate Cold War-era platforms, they possess capable nuclear-powered and armed submarines and are investing in the development of new, advanced capabilities.
From FY2026 to FY2029, the OPC programme will receive funds from the Reconciliation Bill and the Coast Guard annual budget.
Australia has selected the Mogami-class frigate from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to replace Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigates. The decision has been made as the RAN pushes to introduce delayed offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), awaits criticised Hunter-class ships and lives in the shadow of threats to the Collins-class submarine replacement efforts.
With the funds provided by the One Big Beautiful Bill, the Coast Guard will attempt to speed up the production of the Waterways Commerce and Fast Response cutters.
Indonesia is looking to introduce a variety of vessels to meet particular requirements both operational and geographic and is building ties with Turkey as part of the effort.
The DIU is seeking low-cost, COTS capabilities and technologies to analyse naval environments and increase the safety for personnel and infrastructure.
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