Japan is expected to present the federal government with options to build the Navy’s next fleet of submarines both in Australia and offshore in its formal bid for the $20 billion project.
A Japanese delegation, including government, military and industry leaders is in Adelaide to outline aspects of the bid to local industry chiefs.
The PR push includes a meeting with South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill and Defence Industries Minister Martin Hamilton-Smith as well as a tour the ASC shipyards, which are expected to play a key role in any local construction efforts.
Hamilton-Smith said Wednesday’s briefings were another chance to demonstrate that South Australia was equipped, ready and capable of building world-class submarines.
The global interest in naval manufacturing presents an opportunity to showcase our industry competencies and achievements and maximise opportunities for local industry,” he said.
This will be another opportunity to highlight South Australia’s impeccable credentials as a centre for excellence in naval shipbuilding underpinned by our world-class infrastructure, research and industry base.”
Japan is competing in the federal government’s competitive evaluation process for the submarine contract along with Germany and France.
The commonwealth says it wants the best submarines at the best price and has denied speculation that the Japanese have been given the front running.
Hamilton-Smith said the federal government should also rule out a hybrid or overseas submarine build.
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In reports on Wednesday retired admiral Takashi Saito declined to be drawn on Japan’s preferred construction site.
He said his country’s bid would give equal weight to all three options – construction overseas, construction in Australia and a hybrid of both.
– with AAP
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