ASC adopts Teamcenter software for Collins Class submarine fleet

ASC has chosen Siemens' Teamcenter software to support the ongoing sustainment of Australia's Collins Class submarines. The move aims to streamline data management and support long-term maintenance of the fleet.

Collins Class sustainment

The Collins Class sustainment programme is regarded as central to Australia's submarine capability through to at least the 2040s. The fleet consists of six submarines, which have undergone more than 1,000 enhancements during their service life, according to ASC.

Teamcenter, part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, will act as a core tool for product lifecycle management (PLM) across ASC. The digital platform will be used to manage product design data and facilitate a digital thread that ensures consistency and traceability throughout ongoing upgrades and throughout the product's life cycle.

"For four decades, ASC has proudly led Australia's submarine build and sustainment efforts - delivering more than 1,000 enhancements to the fleet of six Collins Class submarines," said Stuart Whiley, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, ASC. "With Siemens' software, ASC is equipped to implement future upgrades that will preserve and strengthen Australia's sovereign submarine capability."

Software deployment

The Teamcenter platform is used by naval manufacturers worldwide and is designed to integrate PLM, 3D modelling and asset management. It will be delivered to ASC via implementation partner Deloitte, which will provide professional services and support throughout the deployment.

The partnership with Siemens is expected to provide ASC with access to advanced tools for managing the full submarine lifecycle, from conceptual design to decommissioning. The PLM system is designed to enhance data accessibility for engineers and supply chain teams involved in sustainment and upgrade projects.

Peter Halliday, CEO of Siemens Australia and New Zealand, emphasised the long-standing involvement of Siemens in regional defence programmes: "We have a long and proud history supporting the region's major defence programs with Siemens technology behind the scenes enabling our nation's defence capability."

"We understand the critical connection between advanced technology and software and advanced capability and outcomes. Using industrial software on vital defence programs like CCSM not only strengthens Australia's sovereign capability - it also drives growth and innovation throughout the supply chain and wider economy," said Halliday.

Implementation partner

The engagement of Deloitte as ASC's implementation partner is part of ASC's broader strategy to strengthen its design, engineering, and maintenance capability. Deloitte will provide advice and practical support as ASC integrates digital and data-driven approaches within its operations.

Jesse Sherwood, Deloitte Australia National Aerospace & Defence Leader, said Deloitte valued its role in the programme: "Technology, innovation and a modernised workforce is at the heart of ASC's future as Australia's sovereign submarine capability, and this program is key to unlocking the technical and engineering capacity and advanced capability needed now and into the future. We recognise ASC's critical role in training and developing the sovereign design, engineering, manufacturing and sustainment workforce in Australia. It is a privilege to play our role in this crucial nation building endeavour."

Sector context

Samantha Murray, Vice President and Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand, Siemens Digital Industries Software, said the software is globally recognised in submarine construction and maintenance programmes: "It's a privilege to work with the ASC and provide Australia's submarine builder and sustainer critical product lifecycle management software which is used in the design, engineering and construction of submarines all over the world,. Siemens' Teamcenter is used to help streamline processes, manage complex product information and improve collaboration across the entire submarine lifecycle - from initial concept to decommissioning."