AUKUS deal sparks debate over naval research ties

DDM News

Flinders University has partnered with the Florida Institute of Technology in the USA to advance naval shipbuilding research.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revealed that this collaboration follows South Australia’s preparations for major shipbuilding projects under the AUKUS agreement.

The research aims to improve naval vessel durability and reduce maintenance costs.

Flinders University and Florida Institute of Technology background

Flinders University, established in 1966, is a public university in South Australia.

It is known for its strong research focus in science, engineering, and technology.

The university has played a significant role in advancing naval and defence-related research.

Flinders is home to the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation.

This centre specializes in biofilm, corrosion, and biofouling studies relevant to naval shipbuilding.

The Florida Institute of Technology, founded in 1958, is a private research university in Melbourne, Florida.

It is recognized for its expertise in engineering, space, and marine sciences.

The university’s Center for Corrosion and Biofouling Control is a leader in naval and maritime research.

Both institutions bring extensive experience in tackling naval engineering challenges.

Their partnership is expected to enhance shipbuilding efficiency and sustainability.

Naval shipbuilding and research collaboration

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, visited the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide.

He inspected the first Arafura-class Offshore Patrol Vessel, NUSHIP Arafura.

The visit highlighted the Australian government’s commitment to naval modernization.

The new research partnership will support these efforts by improving vessel performance.

Professor Sophie Leterme, Director of the ARC Training Centre for Biofilm Research and Innovation, emphasized the project’s significance.

“The work will contribute to the longevity and effectiveness of naval vessels,” she said.

“It will also reduce the need for more frequent operational maintenance.”

Dr. Tamar Jamieson’s role in the project

Dr. Tamar Jamieson, a PhD graduate from Flinders University’s College of Science and Engineering, has been selected for a prestigious scholarship.

She received the SA Defence, Space & Cyber Scholarship from the American Australian Association (AAA).

This program supports emerging experts in specialized defence and space fields.

Jamieson will travel to the Florida Institute of Technology this week.

She will collaborate with experts at the Center for Corrosion and Biofouling Control.

Her research will focus on biofouling control systems for naval vessels.

Biofilm accumulation on ships is linked to 40% higher fuel consumption.

It also contributes to the spread of invasive marine species across international waters.

Jamieson sees this opportunity as a way to gain valuable insights from AUKUS partners.

“Our team at Flinders will gain invaluable experience to advance our capabilities in this field,” she stated.

The collaboration aims to improve corrosion control systems for naval and commercial ships.

Both universities will contribute expertise to enhance ship durability and reduce maintenance costs.

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