Nuclear submarine dreams are becoming reality, with the launch of the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA).

The government has appointed Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead as the inaugural Director-General of the Agency, who it says established the pathway to acquire the new capability through the AUKUS partnership.

With over 350 staff from the Australian Defence Force and Australian Public Service, many of whom have transitioned from the Nuclear-Powered Submarine Taskforce, the ASA is expected to almost double in size to more than 680 staff within the next year. 

Headquartered in Canberra, the ASA will have personnel located across Australia, as well as in the United States and the United Kingdom. 

The ASA is meant to collaborate with communities, unions, industry, and governments to ensure the successful implementation of the nuclear-powered submarine program.

Established as a non-corporate Commonwealth entity within the Defence portfolio, the ASA will directly report to the Minister for Defence, streamlining its operations and facilitating decision-making. 

Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy says the ASA will play a vital role in developing the necessary capabilities to operate nuclear-powered submarines. He also highlighted the economic benefits, stating that the acquisition will generate 20,000 jobs for the Australian economy. 

Conroy claims that the ASA will strengthen the partnership between Australia, the US, and the UK, ultimately ensuring a stronger and more secure Indo-Pacific region.

Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead, the Director-General of the ASA, expressed his pride in leading the agency and recognized the significance of the task ahead. 

As the ASA takes the reins from the Nuclear Powered Submarine Task Force, it is expected to play a vital role in the acquisition and operation of Australia's nuclear-powered submarines. 

The specific details regarding the number and types of submarines to be acquired are yet to be finalised.

More details are accessible here.