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While Australia’s first Future Submarines are a long way from being delivered, the race to become the base and sustainment home of the fleet is already underway.
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A discussion paper, released by the NSW state development committee as part of its inquiry into the state's defence industry, has detailed why the state must secure the rights for basing and sustaining the future fleet if it hopes to remain a leader in the nation's industry.
"An essential focus for Defence NSW is to ensure that New South Wales remains the leader in complex systems integration and sustainment," committee chairman Greg Pearce wrote.
"This can be achieved by targeting major defence projects that align with these areas of expertise, including basing and sustaining the future submarines (SEA 1000) on the east coast of New South Wales."
The discussion paper argues that there will be substantial opportunity for the state's industry if it is the home of the Future Submarines and is therefore calling for more submissions on how the state can ensure it is successful in becoming the home of the future fleet.
"The future basing and sustainment of future submarines represents considerable opportunity for New South Wales," the paper said.
"The committee therefore seeks further submission on what further steps can be taken by the NSW government, as well as local defence industry, to encourage a positive response in this area."
The discussion paper also mentions plans to target the Offshore Patrol Vessels – to be built in SA and WA – and the Future Frigates.
"The NSW government’s Defence and Industry Strategy sets out a number of high level initiatives, underpinned by regional activities, which seek to support this commitment ... targeting major defence projects to take place in New South Wales through co-ordinated campaigns including Joint Strike Fighter (AIR 6000), Air Force’s Future Battle Management System (AIR 6500), Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (LAND 400) and Future Submarines (SEA 1000), Offshore Patrol Vessels (SEA 1180) and Future Frigate (SEA 5000)," the paper said.
Submissions in response to questions in the discussion paper must be made by 12 February 2018 and can be lodged here.
