Cost Performance

The project is working within project approval; no real cost increases have been required.

Schedule Performance

Project boat installations are consistent with the approved Materiel Acquisition Agreement (MAA) schedule; however, each installation is dependent on the Full Cycle Docking (FCD) program, consequently completion dates vary according to boat availability. The RCS schedule has also been impacted by emergent work during each submarine docking. The final boat installation is scheduled for completion in 2015, with Final Materiel Release (FMR) in January 2016.

Materiel Capability Performance

The RCS baseline (CS04) installed in HMA Submarines WALLER and FARNCOMB was approved for Initial Operational Release (IOR) by Chief of Navy (CN) in May 2008 and September 2009 respectively. CN subsequently approved Operational Release    (OR) of that baseline in December 2009. The capability delivered in WALLER and FARNCOMB is consistent with that identified in the project. Sonar towed array trials scheduled for DECHAINEUX were completed with OR of the COLLINS Towed Array Processor (CTAP) being awarded on 20 January 2011.

Installations and Harbour Acceptance Testing for the upgraded combat system baseline (CS05) installed in DECHAINEUX were completed in February 2010. Installation of CS05 baseline in HMA Submarine SHEEAN is progressing consistent with the FCD schedule. The project schedule is dependent on boat FCD, consequently the completion date may vary. IOR of the CS05 baseline as installed in DECHAINEUX, scheduled for December 2010, was finalised by the project office in August 2010. With completion of the external review process IOR approval occurred on 8 March 2011.

IOR marks the point at which the RAN is satisfied that the capability is fit for purpose and when management passes from Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) to the RAN. Following IOR the capability enters a period of Navy Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) to determine the performance boundaries and if the capability is suitable for OR.

OR is the milestone which represents the In-Service date at which CN is satisfied that the equipment is in all respects ready for operational service.