An AI-generated render of a user logging into the ICN portal. (Google Gemini AI)
Australia revamps submarine supplier portal, primes take responsibility
The portal centralises opportunities for Australian businesses, including small companies, looking to participate in the nuclear submarine programme.
06 NOV 2025
By
Benjamin
Howe
Defence Journalist, Clarion Defence & Security
Australia’s sovereign submarine partners, ASC and BAE Systems, are taking over the Industry Capability Network (ICN) Portal from Australia’s Submarine Agency (ASA) to bolster Australian industry access to the nation’s Nuclear-Powered Submarine (NPS) programme.
The announcement came on 4 November, on the sidelines of the Indo Pacific 2025 International Maritime Exposition in Sydney.
The portal will also undergo a revamp, serving as a centralised hub for Australian businesses, particularly allowing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to register their interest, showcase capabilities, and access forthcoming opportunities related to the programme.
To date, the portal has been managed by the ASA; however, with this new announcement, responsibility is moving to ASC and BAE Systems, the prime contractors for the NPS.
“The ICN Portal ensures Australian businesses can register once and remain connected as opportunities grow, giving them the confidence to invest in the skills, standards and innovation needed to succeed in global submarine supply chains”, Craig Lockhard, CEO of BAE Systems Australia, said.
This initiative represents a step towards facilitating better local industry engagement with the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine programme through its key suppliers.
Both ASC and BAE Systems have committed to ensuring continuity for “hundreds of companies already registered” while opening new pathways for others to participate in one of the most complex defence-industrial efforts in Australian history, according to BAE Systems’ statement.
This effort aligns with Australia's broader strategy to develop sovereign defence industrial capability and promote local supplier growth, particularly among SMEs seeking to enter or expand their role in the sector.
By simplifying industry access to programme opportunities and strengthening collaboration between government, prime contractors, and suppliers, ASC and BAE Systems aim to secure a robust, sustainable, and sovereign Australian submarine industry for decades to come.
Benjamin
Howe
Defence Journalist, Clarion Defence & Security
Benjamin is a UK-based Journalist working for Clarion Defence and Security, having previously worked as a Content and Community Manager on Clarion's digital products.