SIA Conference 2026 - SubSTEC8

The Submarine Institute of Australia (SIA) Conference 2026, SubSTEC8, (21-23 September 2026, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide) will focus on the theme Pillar 1 Through a Pillar 2 Lens : Advanced AUKUS Capabilities and the Submarine Deterrent. SubSTEC8 focuses on the collaboration required as Australia transitions from the Collins class to a multiclass, nuclear-powered, conventionally armed force. This transition necessitates: • Developing specialized scientific, technological, regulatory, industrial and uniformed workforces,. • Building supporting infrastructure to internationally approved safety and security standards, • Identification and qualification of a range of suppliers and service providers covering the complete supply chain, • Agreement with source countries for access to intellectual property, sub-assemblies, components, nuclear fuel and raw materials needed for the full life cycle of a nuclear-powered submarine. POTENTIAL STREAMS The following list of potential conference streams and example topics and is neither exhaustive nor exclusive. The SIA will develop a final program based upon the accepted papers and availability of invited speakers. Stream 1: Multi Technology Topics • Sustaining and Enhancing Collins- COLLINS Class Life of Type Extension (LOTE); Evolving and new technology that could be introduced to enhance Collins capability, operations, and sustainment • Challenges to operating and integrating multiple types and classes of submarine concurrently with other Australian and multi-national forces – workforce, infrastructure, supply chain, training etc • Building the required architecture to support the Nuclear Fuel Cycle in Australia - Science, Technology and Engineering opportunities and challenges Stream 2: Innovation and Information Sharing • Accelerating innovation, learning and integration of commercial technology • Expanding, accelerating and protecting the sharing of sensitive information Stream 3: Undersea Capabilities • Role of uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUV) in ISR, tactical engagement and other tasks • Extra-large UUV (XLUUV) development and concept of operations • Battery technology development for safety-critical applications • Submarine Escape and Rescue Stream 4: Quantum Science • Advances in quantum computing Stream 5: Artificial Intelligence and autonomy • Using AI and autonomy to address workforce and skilling requirements’ • Developing and adopting resilient AI and autonomous systems Stream 6: Advanced Cyber • Cyber security in the undersea domain to protect critical communications and systems Stream 7: Electronic Warfare • Interoperability through shared tools techniques and technology in contested and degraded environments