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Western Australia’s defence capabilities have been put on display as a UK naval ship visits the state for maintenance.
The Royal Navy’s HMS Anson has recently visited Western Australia for a period of maintenance, giving small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in the state a rare opportunity to deliver critical capabilities on an operational nuclear-powered submarine.
Twelve SMEs across the state were involved in the maintenance, as well as 35 locally manufactured parts being used to upkeep operations on the Astute Class submarine.
Marking a key point in the progression of enhancing the local workforce and industry in specialised skills for nuclear-powered submarine maintenance, WA’s defence industries minister, Paul Papalia, said that this is a clear display of WA’s defence capabilities.
“Many WA businesses played a hands-on role during HMS Anson’s visit, demonstrating the state’s readiness to play a central role in the AUKUS partnership,” he said.
“WA businesses are stepping up with the skills, innovation and expertise needed to support AUKUS, and that means more WA jobs and a stronger and more diversified economy for the future.”
The SMEs delivered a range of critical capabilities, including biofuelling management which eliminated the need for dry-docking.
“Our local defence industry is rapidly building the sovereign capability needed to sustain nuclear-powered submarines and be ready for the Submarine Rotational Force - West from 2027.”
This is a significant step for Western Australia as it continues to position itself as a critical defence state as Australia shortly begins acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines as a part of the AUKUS pact.
The maintenance follows the announcement of the AUKUS SME Readiness Grant last year which aims to increase the role of local defence companies.
