Who we are
Unsurpassed nuclear capability
H&B Defence was formed in 2024 as a joint venture between HII and Babcock.
H&B Defence combines world-leading experience from Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States to support the development of critical sovereign capability for the once-in-a-generation AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program.
H&B Defence can support all steps of Australia’s optimal pathway to sovereign nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS Pillar 1 – including workforce, nuclear infrastructure design and build, submarine defueling and decommissioning, nuclear waste and future sustainment – ensuring the nation is ready for Virginia Class nuclear-powered submarines and SSN-AUKUS.
Backed by 100 years experience of nuclear safety and submarine sustainment
HII and Babcock are trusted Defence companies with more than 100 years combined experience in stewarding nuclear powered submarine capability in the UK and USA
With decades of proven experience, H&B Defence is best qualified to be the nuclear partner of choice to the Commonwealth to support the nation’s AUKUS endeavour.
HII is the United States’ largest military shipbuilder, one of two designers and builders of nuclear-powered submarines for the U.S. Navy, and the sole designer and builder of nuclear powered aircraft carriers. In addition, HII manages and operates U.S. Department of Energy sites and facilities in compliance with all requirements, building on more than 60 years of U.S. Navy nuclear expertise as an owner/operator of manufacturing facilities.
Babcock is an international defence company delivering engineering, support and critical systems to defence and civil markets. Babcock is renowned for sustaining the Royal Navy’s entire submarine fleet and managing the UK’s sole licensed facility for nuclear powered submarine refuelling and defueling. Babcock has a strong presence in Australia, currently providing maintenance and sustainment to the Collins class submarines as well as other broader engineering and operational solutions for the Australian Defence Force.