ASC selects Siemens’ industrial software for Australia’s Collins Class submarines

Australia’s submarine company, ASC, has selected Siemens’ industry-leading software to help sustain the nation’s Collins Class submarines.

The Collins Class sustainment program (CCSM) – vital to maintaining Australia’s sovereign submarine capability into the 2040s – will use Teamcenter^® software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio.

The Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software will streamline product design data development by creating a digital thread – a single source of truth – throughout the design process.

In choosing Teamcenter, ASC joins other leading global submarine and naval shipbuilders across the US, UK, Europe and Asia already relying on Siemens’ solutions.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Whiley welcomed the announcement.

“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,” Stuart said.

“With Siemens’ software, ASC is equipped to implement future upgrades that will preserve and strengthen Australia’s sovereign submarine capability.”

Peter Halliday, CEO of Siemens Australia and New Zealand and member of the AiGroup Defence Council, welcomed the announcement saying the company has supported major defence programs in Australia and New Zealand for decades.

“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,” Peter said.

“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.”

Teamcenter integrates PLM, 3D modelling and material and asset management practices from conceptual design to production and through-life support.

This important program will be delivered together with ASC’s implementation partner, professional services firm, Deloitte.

Deloitte Australia National Aerospace & Defence Leader, Jesse Sherwood, said Deloitte is incredibly proud to continue working as ASC’s implementation partner.

“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,” Jesse said.

“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.”

Samantha Murray, Vice President and Managing Director Australia and New Zealand, Siemens Digital Industries Software, said she is pleased that Siemens’ software will be an important part of ASC’s digitalisation journey and support Australia’s submarine maintenance and upgrade services.

“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,” Samantha said.

“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.”

ASC background

ASC has proudly served as Australia’s submarine builder and sustainer for 40 years. ASC built Australia’s Collins Class submarines and now maintains and upgrades them, while providing in-operation service and support. In March 2024, ASC was selected as the Australian Government’s Sovereign Submarine Partner to sustain and, together with BAE Systems, jointly build conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines, known as SSN AUKUS. ASC will also deliver sustainment services for Australia’s future Virginia Class and SSN AUKUS submarines.

Background – Siemens software and submarine programs

Siemens’ Teamcenter software is part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio which brings together and integrates the entire Siemens Digital Industries Software portfolio with technologies, solutions and services that connect to existing Information Technology, Operational Technology and Engineering Technology environments. It covers and integrates mechanical, embedded software, electronics, simulation, manufacturing, operations, app development and IoT.

Siemens’ Teamcenter is used in leading submarine programs to enable and support numerous areas –

Centralised Data Management: Teamcenter acts as a single source of truth for all submarine-related data, including designs, engineering specifications, manufacturing information, and maintenance records.

Configuration Management: It helps manage the complex configurations of submarines, tracking changes and ensuring that all components and systems are properly integrated and documented.

Collaboration and Communication: Teamcenter facilitates collaboration among different teams involved in the submarine project, including design engineers, manufacturing teams, and support personnel.

Digital Mockups and Simulation: The software enables the creation of digital mockups of the submarine, allowing engineers to visualize the design, identify potential interferences, and optimize the placement of components before physical construction.

Supply Chain Management: Teamcenter integrates with the supply chain, allowing shipyards to manage their suppliers, track materials, and ensure timely delivery of components.

Lifecycle Management: It supports the entire submarine lifecycle, from design and engineering to manufacturing, operation, maintenance, and eventual decommissioning.