A new, state-of-the-art facility at the Australian Maritime College (AMC) will advance scientific understanding of the "crashworthiness" of submarines, autonomous underwater vehicles, and other marine vessels, according to researchers.
The Underwater Collision Research Facility (UCRF) was developed in partnership with Defence Science and Technology Group as part of the Defence and Maritime Innovation and Design Precinct at the University of Tasmania 's Newnham Campus in Launceston.
AMC Principal Malcolm Wise AM said the UCRF would provide a controlled environment to study the complex interactions between fluids and structures during underwater collision events.
"About 22 per cent of major submarine incidents involve underwater collisions, so it's vital for us to understand what happens during these crashes in order to keep the crews of all vessels safe," Mr Wise said.
"The UCRF represents a significant leap forward in ensuring the safety of critical maritime operations, and we are proud to do this work as Australia's national maritime institute."
The facility will also be used to improve the performance of submarine and autonomous underwater vessel design for both Australia and the AUKUS partners.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, The Honourable Richard Marles MP visited the new facility this week.
"There is world leading research taking place right here in Launceston which at its heart is about the safety of our submariners. The research at the Australian Maritime College is giving us a greater understanding of maritime operations and how we can improve the performance of our underwater capabilities."
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at the University of Tasmania, Professor Anthony Koutoulis said this was the latest collaboration in the longstanding partnership with Defence Science and Technology Group, which has spanned more than 30 years.
He said: "Together, we have created a world-class research environment and infrastructure, where our researchers will be able to generate new knowledge, develop new technologies, and advance marine safety standards for the benefit of everyone in the sector, making a lasting impact not just in Tasmania, but across Australia and around the world."
