South Australian defence manufacturer, PMB Defence, has secured its first US order, contracted to provide its new technology battery system to the US Navy.

PMB Defence will provide products through Penn State University, where they will undergo rigorous testing to assess the suitability of their application to US boats.

The announcement follows the signing of a contract in August 2024 with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) to test and qualify PMB’s cutting-edge battery system for the UK’s nuclear submarines. This latest development sees PMB formally working with all three AUKUS member countries on submarine battery solutions.

General Manager of New Technologies at PMB Defence, Mike Hartas, said that the development underscores the benefits of collaboration among the Australian, US and UK militaries in the lead up to the delivery of Virginia Class submarines to Australia as part of the AUKUS pact.

“We are committed to providing the world’s most advanced battery solutions for AUKUS submarines and it is a tremendous validation of our team’s efforts that our technology will be evaluated by the US Navy,” Mr Hartas said.

“Our team in Australia and the United Kingdom have continued to mature this technology since our 2019 UK MoD contract win and have positioned us well to support future AUKUS contracts in Australia and the US.”

PMB’s advanced technology incorporates its Nickel Zinc battery design which offers high-power performance, safety, excellent charging characteristics and an adaptable cell design that allows it to be fitted into a modular configuration to suit the needs of different platforms.

Since its establishment in 1988 as Pacific Marine Batteries, PMB Defence has been a key supplier to the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class Submarines. In recent years, PMB has expanded its expertise to design and supply advanced technology submarine batteries for many international customers.

—

Photo: General Manager New Technologies, Mr Mike Hartas with Senior Engineer, Mr Martin Jaberi.