Australia’s ASC has signed a six-year contract with engineering and manufacturing specialist HIFraser to extend their partnership supporting the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins-class submarine program beyond 40 years.
The nearly $40 million contract covers HIFraser’s continued provision of valves and maintenance services for Australia’s Collins-class submarines. The company has supported ASC and the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins-class submarines since 1992. It will continue delivering high- and low-pressure valves and on-board maintenance services that are critical to helping sustain the operational readiness of the fleet.
ASC Chief Operating Officer – Multi-Class Sustainment Rebecca Brickhill said the agreement recognised the important role trusted Australian suppliers play in sustaining one of the nation’s most important Defence capabilities.
“ASC’s ability to deliver safe, reliable and effective sustainment outcomes for the Collins Class submarine fleet relies on strong partnerships with highly capable Australian suppliers such as HIFraser,” she added.
HIFraser Group Chief Operating Officer Peter Andrews stated the new agreement marked another significant milestone in the company’s long-standing relationship with ASC.
“Operating for more than 40 years, HIFraser has developed a reputation for highly specialised capabilities in advanced manufacturing, engineering and ongoing sustainment services. These skills are critical to supporting Australia’s submarine fleet and position us strongly to meet future defence industry requirements," he noted.
HIFraser is an Australian component manufacturer and an approved subcontractor to Australia’s Collins Class fleet through-life sustainment activities. Established by the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) in partnership with the US Government, the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program, delivered by ASC, helps Australian industry lift its systems, processes and technical capability to meet US submarine requirements.
HIFraser has been qualified to manufacture and supply specialised valves, fittings and other components for the Virginia-class submarines.
ASC is Australia’s Sovereign Submarine Sustainment Partner and is responsible for ensuring the ongoing availability of the Collins-class submarine fleet through sustainment and Life of Type Extension activities.