Collins Class Fleet to Receive $6bn Service Life Extension

12 Juni 2021

Collins class submarines (photo : The Australian)

Defence has committed $6 billion to refit all six Collins Class submarines amid ongoing concerns over the FOC timeline for the future Attack Class fleet.

Minister for Defence Peter Dutton has confirmed that approximately $6 billion would be invested in a life-of-type extension (LOTE) for all six of the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines.

Defence had initially planned to upgrade just three of the platforms ahead of the delivery of the 12 Naval Group-built Attack Class submarines, promised under the SEA 1000 program.

However, given that the Future Submarines are not scheduled to achieve final operational capability (FOC) until 2054, a decision has been made to ensure at least six vessels are combat-ready throughout the delivery period.

“We need to be realistic about what lies ahead by way of threat in our own region and the submarine capacity is a significant part of how we mitigate that risk and it’s important we get the program right,” Minister Dutton told the media.

“There is no doubt in my mind that we need to pursue a life-of-type extension and we are working on that program now. All six would be on the schedule.”

The Collins LOTE program is expected to involve rebuilding each submarine once it achieves 30 years of service, with each upgrade scheduled to take approximately two years.

The submarines will reportedly be rebuilt by ASC in Adelaide, with the work to be supported by Saab, the original prime contractor for the development of the fleet. 

Contracts for the full suite of work to be undertaken are yet to be finalised. 

See full article Defence Connect