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

That's a fascinating metaphor: an underwater Super Hornet F-35. Thank you, Senator Patrick, for your question. I understand the point that you are raising, but, with your experience, I would have thought you would appreciate how inefficient it might be for the Royal Australian Navy to try to operate three different classes of submarine simultaneously that require different basing, different crewing and different sustainment.

The Collins class submarine life-of-type extension remains an essential element of the government's plan to maintain a potent and agile submarine capability for Australia. It has a core work package that includes updates and upgrades to diesel engines, main motor and power conversion equipment. Both Defence and industry are continuing to progress Collins class submarine life-of-type extension work on schedule to support the first boat that will need an extension—that is HMAS Farncomb, as you know—commencing in mid-2026. The ASC will lead the life-of-type extension desired and implementation activities— (Time expired)