Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

It has been concerning to see some observations in relation to delaying the competitive evaluation process. There have been suggestions that we should down-select to two partners and run another request for tender, and that could apparently be easily achieved by simply extending the life of the Collins class submarine.

I believe, and Defence believes, that this would in fact be a reckless approach. I am advised that, conservatively, an approach like this would add another three or four years to the delivery of the future submarine, which does heighten the risk of developing a capability gap. An extension of the life of the Collins class submarine would come at significant cost and risk, if we were to pursue it even further, as suggested by some of those opposite, including the shadow minister.

It is well known that, as naval vessels age, they do become more expensive to maintain. But, more importantly than that, the longer the Collins submarines are kept in service, the more their relative capability will decline as newer submarines enter service within our region. (Time expired)