Australian submarine maintainer and shipbuilder ASC today welcomed the release of the Government’s Defence White Paper, which confirmed plans for a larger fleet of future warships and submarines.
ASC Interim Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley said ASC was willing to assist the Government achieve its goal of an expanded navy fleet.
“As Australia’s builder of complex warships and the home of Collins Class submarine expertise, ASC welcomes the Defence White Paper as providing greater clarity to industry on future Defence requirements,” Mr Whiley said.
“ASC is ready to help the Government achieve its goal of an expanded navy fleet of warships and submarines, leveraging ASC’s highly skilled workforce, specialised facilities, lengthy experience and links to thousands of Australian supplier companies,” Mr Whiley said.
ASC Shipbuilding Chief Executive Officer Mark Lamarre said the Offshore Patrol Vessel project, set to begin ‘cutting steel’ in 2018, and Future Frigates from 2020, were key priorities for the company.
“ASC has built a highly capable and efficient shipbuilding workforce with the skills, expertise and knowledge required for future shipbuilding projects,” Mr Lamarre said.
Mr Whiley said ASC was already contributing to the navy’s plans for submarines, with more than 20 ASC submarine experts seconded to the Future Submarine Program. ASC has been engaging with the three overseas participants of the Competitive Evaluation Process for designing the Future Submarine.
The Government has also emphasised the importance of industry involvement in securing Australia’s defence capabilities.
Mr Whiley said ASC’s ongoing role as builder of the Air Warfare Destroyers and builder and maintainer of the Collins Class submarine fleet makes it a key interface with Australian industry.
“ASC employs more than 2,600 people in South Australia and Western Australia and draws on a network of thousands of Australian, or Australian-based suppliers,” Mr Whiley said.