The Collins Class Submarine Story

A unique and outstanding military and industrial achievement the Collins class submarine project was also plagued with difficulties and mired in politics. Its story is one of heroes and villains grand passions intrigue lies spies and backstabbing. It is as well a story of enormous commitment and resolve to achieve what many thought impossible. The building of these submarines was Australia''s largest most expensive and most controversial military project. From initiation in the 19812 budget to the delivery of the last submarine in 2003 the total cost was in excess of six billion dollars. Over 130 key players were interviewed for this book and the Australian Defence Department allowed access to its classified archives and the Australian Navy archives. Vividly illustrated with photographs from the collections of the Royal Australian Navy and ASC Pty Ltd The Collins Class Submarine Story: Steel Spies and Spin first published in 2008 is a riveting and accessibly written chronicle of a grand-scale quest for excellence.