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H&B Defence has announced engagement in its first contract to enhance supply chain capabilities under the Australian Submarine Supplier Qualification (AUSSQ) pilot program.
The joint venture between HII and Babcock is engaged to improve the global AUKUS enterprise and formalise its role as the delivery partner for HII’s initial $9.6 million contract with the Australian government.
The joint venture will lead a nationwide qualification process over the next two years to identify Australian suppliers with the requisite skills and products to support the Virginia Class submarine and aircraft carrier build programs at Newport News Shipbuilding in the US.
“H&B Defence brings together the only two organisations worldwide with comprehensive expertise in every aspect of nuclear-powered submarine activities, and as such, is perfectly placed to support the acceleration and development of critical sovereign capability for the once-in-a-generation AUKUS submarine program,” H&B Defence Board chairman and HII Australia president Michael Lempke said.
H&B Defence will evaluate for competency across seven work packages in high demand to support the delivery of the first three nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS trilateral security partnership.
Product categories include castings and forgings, precision machining, air and gas flasks, fabricated parts, composites and glass reinforced plastic, joinery and circuit cards.
Shortlisting of suitable small and medium enterprises will commence in May, followed by more formal technical assessments and validations.
“Securing this contract signals the beginning of a long-term commitment and willingness to deliver innovative, reliable solutions in support of Australia’s national security and that of our allies,” said Andrew Cridland, Babcock Australasia CEO and H&B Defence non-executive director.
“We’re proud to partner with HII and the Commonwealth of Australia to strengthen supply chain capabilities, ensuring seamless operations and long-term benefits for all members of the AUKUS alliance.”
H&B Defence will support each stage of Australia’s transition to sovereign nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS Pillar 1, including workforce skills development, nuclear infrastructure design and build, submarine defuelling and decommissioning, nuclear waste and future sustainment.
