ASC and DSTO join forces to support Collins Class Submarines
ASC and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) today signed a Strategic Alliance to support the technology and capability of Australia's Collins Class submarines fleet at the Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exhibition in Darling Harbour.
The agreement signed between ASC Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Mr Steve Ludlam and Chief Defence Scientist Dr Alex Zelinsky means ASC and DSTO will share scientific expertise and resources to ensure the effective operation of the Collins Class submarines fleet until their replacement by the future submarine.
Mr Ludlam said collaboration was a critical step in building defence industry capability and understanding of the importance of science and technology.
"Collaboration on this level requires industrial leadership and defence science leadership and we see this alliance as a foundation for broader work across defence industry to increase the level of commitment and expenditure on science and technology," Mr Ludlam said.
"Industry has some way to go before it fully integrates innovation into business. We are seeing this change inside ASC and we are taking a leadership role in our industry.
"We are dedicated to driving this across our business and across our industry and it will inform programs such as SEA 1000, and our existing Collins Class and Air Warfare Destroyer programs."
Dr Zelinsky welcomed the alliance and said that the Collins fleet is an invaluable component of Australia's naval defence capability.
"The objective of this alliance is to advance the technology and capability development in a number of strategic focus areas beyond that which any one party could do alone, benefiting Navy and Defence," Dr Zelinsky said.
As part of the alliance, ASC and DSTO will focus on areas including the submarines' hull and structural integrity, propulsion systems, manoeuvrability and hydrodynamic performance, and environmental control.
"These mutually beneficial objectives will be achieved through Integrated Project Arrangements and working groups to address these long term collaborations, as well as workshops, staff exchanges and technical advice and support," Dr Zelinsky said.
