DCNS and Quickstep have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a first step for cooperation in the field of components and assemblies for Australia’s Future submarines.
The MoU was signed in Canberra by Marie-Pierre de Bailliencourt, Deputy CEO DCNS Group, and David Marino, CEO and managing director of Quickstep Holdings Limited.
Through this MoU, Quickstep will produce representative demonstrator components to validate their technology for naval applications with DCNS.
“DCNS has commenced building a supply chain in Australia that will support the submarine capability on a sustainable basis,” Sean Costello CEO DCNS Australia said.
“Ultimately this supply chain will comprise several hundred companies across Australia and form the Future Submarine Enterprise.”
According to Quickstep, use of composite materials is increasing in surface ships and submarines, reflecting reduced material costs and shipbuilders’ focus on weight reduction. A company spokesperson said: "Its potential participation in the Sea 1000 submarine program complements its involvement in the JSF F-35 Program, the world’s largest defence aerospace program".
A Quickstep/DCNS committee will consider the parts and projects most relevant to implementation of Quickstep’s technology and during the next twelve months Quickstep expects to develop and manufacture a number of demonstration parts. Testing of Quickstep’s process technologies for naval applications may lead to production of components for DCNS’ submarine program for Australia and export markets.
Composites provide advantages including high strength for weight, weight reduction, thermal insulation and the absence of magnetic signatures. They are already used in naval and commercial ships for purposes such as superstructures, bulkheads, propellers and interior panels.
DCNS has been selected as the Australian Government’s preferred international partner for the design of 12 Future Submarines for the Royal Australian Navy.