Australia has named Lockheed Martin as the preferred combat system integration partner for its future Virginia-class submarines.
The agreement is part of the wider AUKUS security partnership between Australia, the US, and the UK. Canberra plans to begin operating conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines in the early 2030s.
The company’s Australian division will support combat system integration, testing, maintenance, and crew training for the future fleet.
Combat systems are the digital networks and sensors that help submarines detect threats, track targets, and launch weapons. These systems are vital because they integrate sonar, radar, navigation tools, and weapons into a single operating platform.
Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said the agreement keeps the AUKUS program moving forward.
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He said Australia is preparing the local industry and workers to manage and maintain nuclear-powered submarines in the future. The government also sees the program as a long-term investment in national security and defense skills.
Lockheed Martin Expands Role in Australia
Lockheed Martin Australia will work with the Australian Submarine Agency and ASC Pty Ltd to build local technical expertise.
The company expects the project to create around 100 new jobs, mainly in Western Australia. Those roles will focus on engineering, testing, maintenance, and submarine support services.
The combat systems will be installed on three Virginia-class submarines planned for Australia’s navy. These submarines will serve as an interim capability until the arrival of the future SSN-AUKUS submarines currently under development by the three partner nations.
The Virginia-class submarines are already used by the US Navy and are considered among the world’s most advanced attack submarines.
Stephanie Hill, president of rotary and mission systems at Lockheed Martin, said the company’s long experience with US Navy submarine systems will help Australia.
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She said the goal is to ensure smooth coordination between both navies in the Indo-Pacific region. Strong interoperability allows allied submarines to share data, missions, and operational support more effectively.
Why the Submarine Deal Matters
The submarine partnership reflects growing security concerns across the Indo-Pacific region. Australia has increased defense spending in recent years amid expanding competition between major powers across the region. Nuclear-powered submarines can travel longer distances and remain underwater much longer than conventional diesel-electric submarines.
Australia’s current Collins-class submarines are expected to be replaced by at least five SSN-AUKUS submarines in the future.
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Britain also plans to use the same AUKUS-class design to replace its Astute-class submarines over time. This shared submarine program is designed to improve military cooperation among the three allied nations for decades to come.
The latest Lockheed Martin agreement marks another major step in Australia’s transition toward operating nuclear-powered submarines. The project also shows how AUKUS is moving from planning into industrial and military development. The program is expected to reshape Australia’s naval capabilities and deepen defense ties with its closest allies.
