Royal Australian Navy Discussions and Updates 2.0

[SammyC]

Or NSW with CIVMEC, BAe, Thales or Babcock.

CIVMEC have an existing footprint in Newcastle, there is also significant free space still available on the old BHP site.

Thales have an existing footprint in Sydney, there are numerous legacy facilities in place that have been stripped of equipment but could probably be restored if the will existed. Sutherland dock can fit anything in the RAN except the AOR's and Canberra class.

Woolwich dock is also still around, it *should* be deep enough since a bunch of super maxi's yachts live there but no idea what would be required to install a new dock gate. Not a huge amount of space around the dock though and access could probably be

I would suggest the ability to construct is less about drydocks or slips. These days its more about large sheds to build modules, with waterfront access to transport to another area for final assembly. There are lots of those with crews.

There is no reason to think that all the said facilities around Australia can not be brought into the production process. It's not just what Austal can build in its own premises.

If I remember correctly Forgacs in Newcastle made modules for ASC to assemble in Osborne for the AWDs. This model has been used in the past. It had its issues, but one assumes we can learn from the past to avoid those.

I would suggest it is not unlikely that Civmec will be subcontracted to make many of the LCH and future Mogami modules in their existing facility, and then transfer them to an assembly shed that Austal intends to build in the CUF. Civmec may even use their Newcastle yard or possibly even Port Hedland to make some parts.

Austal will have their own module fabrication facility eventually, some modules may even be able to be built in their existing halls, particularly for the LCHs. I note from the above senate estimates video, the new LCH assembly hall will be built with the Mogamis in mind

I'm pretty sure Civmec have learnt how to not make banana hulls.