Submarine Technology

From incredible intelligence gathering capabilities to sophisticated sensors and weapons, Navy Submarines are packed with advanced technology.

Find your future in Nuclear Engineering and Science

Australia’s commitment to acquire nuclear powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy is opening up exciting sponsored tertiary study and career opportunities in the fields of nuclear engineering, nuclear science, and nuclear regulation and safety.

Defence would like to hear from you if you are:

  • An Australian citizen
  • Tertiary qualified in engineering or science (physics) disciplines, currently studying towards these qualifications, or interested in studying in these disciplines
  • Keen to play a leading role in introducing next generation technologies for Australia
  • Seeking to join a committed and professional team working across government, academia, industry and our international partners.

Whether you want to lead a team at sea on the Navy’s first nuclear powered submarine, operate its propulsion systems, govern the regulation and safety of Australia’s nuclear propulsion technologies, or be a member of the engineering and scientific teams engaged with our partners, then this could be the opportunity for you.

If you are interested in finding out more click here and we will contact you to discuss the next steps.

Australia's nuclear powered submarine pathway from Department of Defence.

Step on board the Collins Class

Take a virtual tour of a workplace like no other.

World Class Capability World Class Capability
World-class capability

The Collins Class is a fast and flexible vessel, capable of fulfilling a range of maritime military tasks. With its stealth technology, whisper-quiet propulsion, powerful sensors and ability to loiter un-detected in an opponent's operating area for extended periods, it is one of the world's most capable anti-submarine and anti-ship platforms.

Stealth and reconnaissance

The Collins Class uses classified technology allowing them to operate quietly while using sophisticated sensors to detect noise and emissions.
Hybrid power

Diesel engines power the electric motors via generators, silently driving the propeller when the Collins Class is submerged.
High-tech weaponry

The Collins Class operates the Mk48 torpedo and Harpoon Anti-Ship missiles, capable of completely disabling a large vessel with a single hit.
1914 - First deliveries

Australia's submarine service dates back to World War I when the Navy took delivery of two British-built E Class submarines.
1915 - Gallipoli service

To support Allied troop landings, Australia's AE2 submarine successfully launched several attacks against enemy shipping in the Sea of Marmora.
1920s - J-class introduced

In 1919, six J-class submarines were gifted to Australia by the British Admiralty, with two more added in 1929 to strengthen capability.
1940s - British presence in Sydney

In 1949, a flotilla of three Royal Navy submarines were based at HMAS Penguin in Sydney and this presence continued until 1969.
1960s - Oberon Class introduced

Four new Oberon Class submarines were introduced in the 1960s, with two more added in the 1970s.
1980s - Collins Class introduced

Six new Collins Class submarines were built in the 1980s, able to cover large distances quickly and quietly, at depths in excess of 180 metres.
Submariner Life / An enriched and varied lifestyle
Submariner Jobs / Explore the variety of roles available