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It is rather obvious from here in the UK that the news bending is very different in the UK, USA (and Australia)

The USA SEEM to think it is going to be a USA lock out. The UK agree that the initial lending will be USA (probably older Virginia class subs) plus on land and at sea training of Australian sailors / technicians. However, the UK believe that the submarines will be Australian built (maybe a couple of early boats built in the UK for the RN) with the nuclear element (reactors, etc) being built in the UK by "Rolls-Royce and Associates"

The main point seems to be the technical transfer and exchange of at sea experience.

My own take is that the Virginias are too big, and require too many sailors for the Australian navy to run.

What I foresee is something like an enlarged Astute class with more Virginia type features, I.E. LOTS of vertical launch cruise missile tubes. The reason being that even Australian bases are distant from suitable launch sites against Chinese targets - it is pointless sailing a multi-billion dollar submarine to send a mosquito bite against mainland China.

In addition I expect more automation and a reduction in crew size.

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