Australia’s Dry Dock Dilemma: Complex Decisions for Submarine Maintenance

Australia’s Defence Minister, Richard Marles, faces the challenge of developing a large dry dock and other maintenance facilities to support an expanding naval fleet, including Virginia-class and SSN AUKUS submarines. The project, potentially spanning a decade, raises significant uncertainties regarding its start date, location, and cost.

While HMAS Stirling near Perth currently hosts conventional Collins-class submarines, the plan is to eventually handle new SSNs at Henderson, where new frigates and amphibious landing craft are being built. The need for facilities capable of servicing nuclear-powered subs, which require more security than conventional vessels, adds complexity.

Marles emphasized the importance of assessing Henderson’s requirements, a process complicated by the need for both commercial and physical consolidation. A source indicated that Australia might need two dry docks for nuclear maintenance and a floating dry dock for lower-level work. The broader issue includes accommodating the surface fleet at Henderson.

Marcus Hellyer, an acquisition expert, highlighted the unprecedented complexity of coordinating decisions across various fleets and maintenance types. Australia has committed significant funds to support submarine construction and maintenance, but challenges remain in building dry docks, housing, and secure facilities to protect nuclear secrets.

Despite positive government rhetoric, Hellyer stresses the seriousness of these challenges, citing competition for limited resources and industrial capacity as significant obstacles.