Australia kicks off $11 billion upgrade program for ageing Collins-class subs

May 22, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Australia has launched the life extension program for its Collins-class submarines, with HMAS Farncomb set to become the first boat to undergo major sustainment and upgrade work.

Illustration; Royal Australian Navy photo of Collins-class submarines underway off Western Australia

The government has formally kicked off the Collins-class submarine life-of-type extension program, marking the start of a major effort to sustain Australia’s undersea warfare capability as the country transitions toward a future fleet of nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS partnership.

HMAS Farncomb will enter the first phase of extension work at the end of the month, becoming the first of the Royal Australian Navy’s six Collins-class submarines to undergo the process.

The submarine, one of the oldest and most heavily used boats in the fleet, will also undergo a detailed engineering assessment intended to help shape sustainment and upgrade requirements for the remaining vessels in the class.

The officials said the program will follow a conditions-based sustainment approach designed to reduce engineering and scheduling risks while maximising submarine availability.

Under the plan, Defence and ASC, Australia’s submarine sustainment partner, will retain and restore core components while continuing to upgrade key combat systems, weapons, and other critical capabilities.

Canberra said the approach would ensure the Collins-class remains a credible deterrent capability during the transition period before conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines enter service.

The program will also prioritize sustainment work on the fleet’s youngest submarines, beginning with HMAS Rankin, as Defence seeks to improve operational readiness across the class.

The Collins-class fleet has faced ongoing sustainment and availability challenges in recent years. In 2024, the government designated the capability as a “Product of Concern” to increase oversight and improve productivity across defense and industry.

Australia plans to invest up to A$11 billion over the next decade in Collins-class sustainment, including maintenance, workforce growth, and infrastructure upgrades required to support the fleet.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles said extending the life of the submarines was critical to maintaining Australia’s deterrence capability.

“Extending the life of all six Collins class submarines is critical to maintaining that edge as we transition the Navy from conventional to nuclear-powered submarines,” Marles said.

Defense Industry Minister Pat Conroy stated the program would also strengthen Australia’s sovereign submarine industrial base and supply chain.

“The Collins life of type extension is a critical capability decision and a major investment in Australia’s sovereign defence industrial base and submarine supply chain,” he noted.

ASC will continue delivering the sustainment effort, with work split between Osborne in South Australia and Henderson in Western Australia.