Australia may potentially keep Collins-class submarines running until 2050

A Collins-class submarine with an MH-60R naval helicopter. Photo c/o RAN.


The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) may potentially need to keep its Collins-class diesel-electric attack submarines to operate up to 2050.

This is while RAN waits for the introduction of new nuclear-powered attack submarines using American and British technology, committed as part of the Australia-UK-US (AUKUS) treaty.

When asked if the Collins-class would continue to operate in 2040 or 2050, RAN’s Chief of the Navy Vice Admiral Mike Noonan confirmed that it potentially could during a Senate inquiry on the country’s submarine program.

This means that another round of upgrade works could be needed, as the recently-approved program to upgrade the submarines are only good to extend their service life for another 10 years, or only until the around 2038.

Aside from these development, Vice Adm. Noonan also confirmed that US and British nuclear-powered attack submarines might be based in Australia, to help develop the RAN and the Australian defence industry’s understanding on naval nuclear technology.

But this would mean adjustments in the country’s legislations are needed, to allow the operation, docking, and maintenance of nuclear-powered ships in the country.

Aside from issues within Australia, tt was already confirmed by the New Zealand Government that nuclear-powered submarines that will be operated by the RAN are not allowed to enter or dock in New Zealand.

Australia terminated a deal with France’s Naval Group to build 6 Attack-class diesel-electric submarines, which are based on the Shortfin Barracuda design, and there are reports that Australia already spent at least A$2.3 billion up until the contract was terminated.





[1] ABC News
[2] Australia Financial Review

Australia may potentially keep Collins-class submarines running until 2050  Australia may potentially keep Collins-class submarines running until 2050 Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal on October 24, 2021 Rating: 5

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