Australian manufacturing capability is being lifted into the global submarine supply chain as more than 60 businesses progress through a national qualification program to support the build of Virginia Class submarines, according to ASC.
Announced at the Indian Ocean Defence & Security Conference in Perth, the milestone highlights Western Australia’s expanding role in AUKUS-linked industrial work, with ASC saying the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program is helping local manufacturers meet stringent US defence requirements and enter the nuclear-powered submarine supply chain.
Through the program, established by the Australian Submarine Agency in partnership with the US Government, ASC is working with industry to improve systems, engineering capability and quality standards so companies can compete for work in the US submarine enterprise.
ASC said it is also collaborating with US shipbuilders General Dynamics Electric Boat and HII Newport News Shipbuilding to assess Australian suppliers.
ASC Acting Chief Executive Officer Alex Walsh said the progress reflects growing capability in local manufacturing and engineering.
“ASC is working side-by-side with local businesses to help them meet the rigorous standards of the US submarine enterprise, and Australian industry is proving it has what it takes,” Walsh said.
“Australian manufacturers have deep capability in precision manufacturing, sustainment and engineering. What we’re now seeing is Australian industry stepping confidently into a global defence supply chain.”
WA-based VEEM and Camco Engineering are among the latest companies to achieve DIVQ qualification, alongside Mackay Australia, Bale Defence and HIFraser.
The five firms are now eligible to compete for contracts supplying components for the Virginia Class fleet, including mechanical assemblies, valves, pipe fittings, machined parts, electrical systems, and castings and forgings.
A further 60 businesses remain in various stages of qualification as they work through engineering, quality and security requirements under the program.
Walsh said the initiative is designed to create longer-term industrial capability beyond individual contracts. “Once a company meets these standards, the doors open,” he said. “This is about creating enduring capability, skilled jobs, and sovereign industrial strength that will benefit Australia for generations.”
Industry representatives welcomed the milestone, with VEEM Chief Executive Officer Trevor Raman saying the qualification reflects years of technical preparation.
Camco Engineering CEO Glenn Bailey said the recognition strengthens Australia’s sovereign industrial capability, while Mackay Australia CEO Craig Evans and Bale Defence Managing Director Link Bale both described the achievement as recognition of their teams’ work and contribution to AUKUS-related manufacturing opportunities.
