Australia’s sovereign defence company ASC is opening a new science and technology hub at Adelaide’s Lot Fourteen, to form new research and business connections that can enhance Collins Class submarine sustainment and their Life of Type Extension (LOTE).

ASC’s Lot Fourteen office will be a base for both permanent staff and visiting experts across ASC’s engineering team.

The Lot Fourteen office would extend research activities undertaken at the company’s Osborne site and provide a new gateway for students and future partners to connect with ASC’s programs.

The science and technology hub will build upon the state’s already strong Defence presence and research and development ecosystem, reinforcing South Australia’s status as the best place for defence innovation.

Planned future research subjects for ASC’s Science and Technology Program include robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, knowledge management and machine learning.

ASC sustains the Collins Class submarines for the Royal Australian Navy and has commenced systems design for their Life of Type Extension. The LOTE program will upgrade propulsion and power distribution systems, diesel motors and generators to ensure that Australia’s Collins Class submarines continue proudly serving the nation into the 2040s.

South Australian Premier, Peter Malinauskas said, “The district’s close proximity to universities makes Lot Fourteen the perfect location for ASC’s city hub.”

“As a valuable addition to the Lot Fourteen innovation district, ASC will become part of the district’s knowledge transfer network that supports South Australia’s world-class research excellence.

“My Government is committed to setting up the workforce of the future, which is why we’re backing Lot Fourteen.”

ASC managing director and chief executive officer, Stuart Whiley, stated, “ASC has a proud history in the build, continual upgrade and sustainment of Australia’s Collins Class submarines. We intend to remain at the cutting edge into the future.”

“This new hub will place ASC’s expert staff at the centre of activity in Adelaide’s CBD, and create even more two-way links with universities and new technology businesses.

“The rapid evolution of technology in industries that are adjacent to defence provides opportunities to collaborate on projects that can drive improvements in shipyard safety, the performance of Collins Class submarines and assist in optimising LOTE activities.

“It is important that we focus on fostering the next wave of Australia’s innovation and skills development, to continue serving the long-term goals of ASC and our valued partners.”

South Australia is spearheading a major expansion of Australia’s naval capabilities, which includes the full cycle docking and life-of-type extension of the nation’s fleet of Collins class submarines. Announced in 2021, this program represents a $6.4 billion investment commitment and will support 1,300 local jobs.

 

Originally published by Lot Fourteen on 9 August 2022.