The new Branch supports CN in his role of Submarine Capability Manager by maintaining strategic oversight of current and future submarine capability.
The Branch establishment recognises the unique challenges Navy faces in rebuilding then growing the submarine capability to meet the future force structure, and the strategic importance of the capability within the Australian Defence Force.
The SMCB is led by the Director-General Submarine Capability (DGSMC).
DGSMC is CN's principal advisor on all submarine issues and is responsible to the Deputy Chief of Navy (DCN) for the overall delivery of future submarine capability to Navy, noting that Fleet Command remains responsible for generation of the current Submarine Force.
The SMCB is responsible to DCN (as the Head of Navy Capability) for:
• development of submarine strategy and doctrine, including requirements advice for the Future Submarine;
• driving a sustainable submarine workforce in Navy through the implementation of the Submarine Workforce Sustainability Review recommendations and other initiatives; and
• driving the platform availability and capabilities Navy needs through stabilisation of the Collins class maintenance schedule and optimisation of current and future Collins class projects.