Australia - Submarines decision not due until 2013

A key decision on whether Australia will buy next-generation submarines won't be made until late 2013 or early 2014.

Defence Minister Stephen Smith has confirmed 2025 remains the nominal retirement date for the navy's six Collins submarines, although the potential to extend their working life was being looked at.

Mr Smith said funding options for the new vessels were being developed and had yet to be considered by the government.

"On current schedule, first-pass approval is planned for late 2013, early 2014," he said, answering a question on notice from opposition defence spokesman David Johnston.

Defence procurement now involves a two-stage approval process.

Under the so-called first pass, the government gives the go-ahead for acquisition of a particular capability, outlining options to be explored and discarded, the engagement of industry and likely funding.

Under the second pass, the government approves the acquisition of specific equipment.

The 2009 Defence White Paper calls for 12 new advanced submarines to provide Australia with a formidable defensive and offensive capability. These vessels would be built in South Australia.

So far, the government has committed funding of $19.37 million to planning for the new submarines. Defence has invited three European builders to submit details of their latest designs.

Senator Johnston said despite Mr Smith's suggestions last week that key decisions would be made soon, the government would not make a decision on a replacement submarine until after the next election.

He said that delay meant Australia would face a time when the navy was left entirely without a submarine fleet.

"For the minister to further delay this importance decision until after the next election is bordering on negligent. This is a serious blow to the protection of our continent, not just over the next ten years but for the decade after," he said in a statement.