Submarine testing agreement to support new jobs in SA

A new contract has been signed between Osborne based companies ASC and QMS NDT & NACE(QMS) that will see more than 25 local jobs supported through the delivery of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and metal survey services.

The new deal will see QMS deliver x-ray and radiographic testing for Collins class submarines as part of the full-cycle docking program. This technology enables precise analysis of the integrity of the structures’ welds, pipe wall thicknesses, and other metallic components without physical disruption and will be used by ASC teams to effectively target maintenance activities.

ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Stuart Whiley said the new deal would create further sovereign capability in ASC’s supply chain.

“Developing strong, long-term relationships with local suppliers assists ASC to maintain high levels of quality and responsiveness during Collins Class maintenance,” he said.

“The significant national security investments which are being made to grow Australia’s submarine capability will support hundreds of jobs, both at ASC and with suppliers.”

QMS are a family-owned, South Australian company specialising in personalised NDT, inspection and production services to the defence, mining, and manufacturing industries across metropolitan and regional South Australia.

QMS Director and owner, Shaun Kennedy, agreed that supporting sovereign capability continues to make a positive local impact.

“QMS NDT & NACE has supported the Collins Class NDT and metal loss contract for the past eight years and we are happy to have the opportunity to sign another contract to continue working on the Collins Class fleet,” Mr Kennedy said.

ASC is Australia’s sovereign submarine builder and sustainer for the Collins class, ensuring the performance and availability of the fleet for the Royal Australian Navy.