This marks a significant step forward in Australian preparations for the AUKUS submarine programme, which will provide the nation with their first conventionally armed nuclear navy. It also highlights the unique nuclear expertise Rolls-Royce brings to the AUKUS agreement.
Under the agreements, both Western and South Australian Governments, in collaboration with Rolls-Royce, will co-design and implement initiatives to build a highly-skilled workforce. There will be a particular focus on strengthening the STEM pipelines and addressing critical skills gaps for current and future defence projects.
Rolls-Royce has powered the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines for over 65 years and is expanding its Derby site to support both UK and Australian defence programs. Rolls-Royce is the only private company in the world with the nuclear capability to manage reactor design, manufacture and decommissioning within one single entity.
In March 2023, it was confirmed that Rolls-Royce Submarines would provide all the nuclear reactor plants that will power new attack submarines as part of the tri-lateral agreement between Australia, the UK and US.
The MOUs build on previous engagements, including Rolls-Royce Submarines’ visit to Australia in 2024, and the company’s announcement to double the size of its Derby site to support the AUKUS program.
In 2022, Rolls-Royce launched their award-winning Nuclear Skills Academy, in partnership with the University of Derby. The academy takes on up to 200 apprentices each year, enabling a pipeline of talent at the start of their careers in support of the Royal Navy Submarines programme. This demonstrates the innovative approach that Rolls-Royce has taken to develop essential skills and capability – learnings from which will inform both MOUs.
These partnerships with Rolls-Royce will further strengthen both Western and South Australia’s position as critical contributors to the AUKUS alliance.