CDRE Mike Deeks and Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist Dr Roger Lough at the opening of an extended submarine research facility at HMAS Stirling.

A $3 million extension to the Defence Science and Technology Organisation’s HMAS Stirling research facility will ensure continued leading edge support to the Navy in specialised submarine research.

Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist, Dr Roger Lough, recently opened the newly extended building which includes four new research laboratories.

The newly expanded structure can now accommodate up to 70 staff and boasts specialised new research laboratories that will support the Navy’s submarine and surface combatants at HMAS Stirling.

“We have added four new laboratories to our Stirling facility, focusing on materials investigation, noise and vibration, combat systems and sonar processing,” Dr Lough said.

“This will enable DSTO researchers to better support the RAN by enhancing a variety of core research programs, including platform and sensor performance and processing capabilities.

The extensions also provide DSTO researchers with:

• A replica of a Collins Class submarine control room, which will allow the study of the interaction between systems and operators.
• Improved computer based facilities for modelling studies and submarine tactical war games.
• An expanded trials support capability.
• A better ability to undertake materials failure analysis and data-mining activities.
  
  “The improved facilities at DSTO Stirling will ensure we continue to provide high-level support to the RAN,” Dr Lough said.
  
  “The new labs will provide DSTO scientists and RAN personnel with access to more realistic representations of improved submarine combat system and sonar options, as well as better facilities for investigating ship and submarine noise, vibration and materials issues.”

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