The government has approved the first phase of the Collins class life-of-type extension program, which will see HMAS Farncomb commence the upgrade program as scheduled in 2026.
However, based on recommendations from defence and external experts, the scope of the upgrade has deviated from previous plans. Notably, the planned optronics upgrade package from Safran has been scrapped.
Additionally, the government has decided that fitting the Collins-class submarines with a torpedo tube-launched version of the Tomahawk cruise missile does not represent good value for money.
"These decisions will reduce risk for the Collins class program and will help maximise Collins class availability as we transition to our future nuclear-powered submarine capability," Pat Conroy the Minister for Defence Industry said in a statement.
“Sustainment of the Collins class submarines continues to meet the Navy’s operational requirements and ensures the submarines remain an enduring, potent and credible capability that is critical to Australia’s national security," he added.
The life-of-type extension program is expected to cost between $4 to $5 billion over its lifetime.