A defence industry contract is set to provide asset management, engineering and sustainment services for a range of Navy and Army capabilities.

Defence awarded a new Capability Life Cycle Manager contract to Kellogg Brown & Root Pty Ltd (KBR) for the Diving, Autonomous and Signatures System Program Office portfolio.

The initial three-year contract, valued at about $12.5 million, is another step forward in implementing Defence’s maritime sustainment model – the new national approach to delivering sustainment for Navy capabilities.

The capabilities will include diving and hyperbaric systems, Huon-class minehunter coastal vessels, deployable mine countermeasures and the Sail Training Ship Young Endeavour. 

The Capability Life Cycle Manager model provides Defence with an accountable industry partner that is responsible for managing capability throughout its life cycle, while improving efficiency, effectiveness and value for money. 

Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group Deputy Secretary David Hanley said this contract was another important step in building a modern, integrated approach to sustainment.

“The Government is implementing fundamental reform of Defence sustainment through the maritime sustainment model, ensuring Navy capability is available when and where it is needed,” Mr Hanley said.

“The maritime sustainment model is giving industry greater certainty to invest, innovate and grow, helping build the resilient industrial base Australia needs in a challenging strategic environment.”

KBR will work with a network of Australian industry partners to deliver sustainment outcomes, helping build a more resilient and sustainable defence industrial base.