Bisalloy and BlueScope contracted for RAN Future Submarine trial

Naval Group has awarded a contract to Australia steel manufacturers Bisalloy and BlueScope for the production of specialised steel for Australia’s Future Submarine Program (SEA1000).

The deal will see the companies produce a total of up to 250t of steel in support of the programme.

Additionally, the unique grade of steel is set to be put through a series of trials to assess its suitability, specifications and safety requirements.

The steel produced under the initiative is expected to be used for the pressure hulls of the new Future Submarines.

Both steel-making firms had previously worked with Naval Group over the past year to qualify the Australian steel to ensure it meets the specifications required for the new submarines.

Australian Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne said: “This will be the first time Australian industry has attempted to make this particular type of steel, demonstrating the ongoing opportunities for local industry within the Future Submarine Program.

“It’s great news for local workers and shows the confidence we have in Australian companies to contribute to this massive A$50bn dollar programme.”

The RAN’s Future Submarine programme will involve the construction of a fleet of 12 vessels by an Australian workforce.

Construction is set to take place at a dedicated Submarine Construction Yard in Adelaide.

The programme is expected to create an average of approximately 2,800 Australian jobs in the country each year.

Work on the first Future Submarine is currently scheduled to begin in 2022-23.