The RN-UDS launched on 25 February 2019, with a call for expressions of interest from any Australian university that is a signatory to the Defence Science Partnering Deed (DSPD).

The initiative will focus on the human element in undersea decision making, and will provide a mechanism to fund and oversee research projects that lead to "improved decision making in the context of future submarine operations".

Up to $2 million in funding will be available annually for suitable projects and "other network activities", such as seminars, scholarships and administration, and academics from network members will be able to apply directly for project funding opportunities.

Non-member academics from DSPD signatory universities are able to participate in projects "through collaboration with network members through the usual subcontracting processes under the DSPD".

These projects will be lead by academics from network members.

Three universities are foundation members for the RN-UDS: Curtin University, Edith Cowan University and the University of Western Australia, with Curtin initially acting as the network agent.

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An advisory board made up of representatives from DST and network members, will govern the RN-UDS, with an interim board to be appointed for the first 12 months of operation.

The interim advisory board is chaired by retired submariner Commodore (Ret'd) Steve Davies of Nova Systems, supported by independent members Dr Margaret Law (Naval Group) and Pat Hall (independent director), DST representative Dr David Gamble, and university representatives Dr Andrew Dowse (Edith Cowan University), Pru Ayling (University of Western Australia) and Tim Walton (Curtin University).