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Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), the largest military shipbuilder in the United States and a global leader in nuclear-powered submarine construction, has been awarded a contract to deliver the new Australian Submarine Supplier Qualification Pilot Program over the next two years.
This initiative aims to accelerate the identification and qualification of Australian suppliers and products into the US submarine industrial base, reinforcing the strategic objectives of the AUKUS trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.
The initial value of the contract is AU$9.6 million, with the option for extension based on performance outcomes. The Australian Submarine Supplier Qualification (AUSSQ) Pilot Program is a critical component of the Australian government’s comprehensive “AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy” released by the Australian Submarine Agency on 5 March 2025.
The strategy outlines the roadmap for developing a sovereign industrial capability to deliver, operate and sustain Australia’s future conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines while ensuring the ongoing maintenance and modernisation of the Collins Class submarines.
“This contract represents a significant milestone in building a resilient and globally integrated supply chain for nuclear-powered submarines,” said Chris Kastner, president and CEO of HII. “HII has a long history of working with suppliers to ensure they meet the highest standards in safety, security and performance. We welcome Australian partners to help build out this critical nuclear shipbuilding capability and ensure the long-term success of AUKUS.”
The AUSSQ Pilot Program will employ a business-to-business model, allowing HII Australia to directly engage with Australian companies, qualify their products and services and support them in tendering for supply into US submarine programs.
This approach complements the Australian government’s existing Defence Industry Vendor Qualification Program and builds on HII Australia’s partnerships with the South Australian and Western Australian governments.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “An Australian submarine industrial base capable of building and sustaining a persistent, potent and sovereign multi-class submarine capability is vital to the defence of Australia, and this pilot initiative with HII Australia is another important step towards achieving this goal.”
HII brings over 60 years of experience in managing complex supplier networks for US Navy nuclear-powered submarine programs and maintaining a strong nuclear stewardship culture for the US Department of Energy on critical national security projects. Its expertise in quality assurance, safety and technical training will assist Australian industry in meeting the stringent requirements of nuclear-powered submarine construction.
The company also has a proven record of advancing science, technology and environmental protection, as well as fostering a highly skilled nuclear workforce through investment in education and training programs.
By leveraging its extensive experience in supply chain management and industrial base expansion, HII is well-positioned to support Australia in establishing a robust, sustainable pipeline of qualified suppliers for the AUKUS initiative.
Each year, HII spends approximately AU$1.5 billion with more than 2,000 suppliers in the United States, with nearly half of this amount directed towards small businesses. The company’s engagement with Australian suppliers will focus on assessment, technical guidance and implementation of best practices to ensure compliance with the precise specifications required for nuclear submarine components.
This contract will be managed through HII’s Australian operations, leveraging its local expertise alongside its international capabilities. It will be delivered in partnership with H&B Defence, a joint venture between HII and Babcock, further strengthening the global collaboration underpinning the AUKUS security partnership.
