Agreement builds on success of Rolls-Royce nuclear academy

Rolls-Royce has signed an agreement with a government in Australia, which would build on the success of its Nuclear Skills Academy in Derby.

The engineering giant has signed a memorandum of understanding with the State of Victoria that outlines a commitment to collaborate on developing Victoria’s defence industry skills, supply chain and innovation eco-system, to support the AUKUS submarine programme.

Developing nuclear skills will be a particular focus, with plans to establish Rolls-Royce-affiliated skills and training academies being explored.

This would build on the success of the award-winning Rolls-Royce Nuclear Skills Academy, at Infinity Park Derby.

Steve Carlier, president of Rolls-Royce Submarines, said: “This collaboration agreement will bring together the world-leading research and innovation capabilities of Victoria with our own established nuclear expertise to support Australia in their mission to introduce nuclear powered submarines to their fleet.”

Opened in 2022, the academy has seen up to 200 apprentices enrolled on apprenticeships each year, creating a pipeline of nuclear talent at the start of their careers to support the UK Royal Navy.

The agreement will also look to support launching specific research and development initiatives, including the establishment of Rolls-Royce University Technology Centres and affiliated research clusters, in collaboration with Victorian universities.

Following similar agreements signed with Western and South Australian Governments in September 2025, this marks a significant step forward in Australia’s preparations for operating its first conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines.

It also highlights the unique nuclear expertise Rolls-Royce brings to the AUKUS agreement.

Rolls-Royce has powered the UK Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines for over 65 years and is expanding its Raynesway site in Derby to support both UK and Australian defence programmes.

Mr Carlier said: “Nuclear submarines bring unsurpassed endurance, range, stealth, power and reliability that still provide the absolute pinnacle of military advantage.

“This agreement allows us to support Australia in establishing a sustainable supply chain in-country, while developing home-grown nuclear talent and well-paid careers for Australian people.”