Submarine design contract signed

A contract to finalise the design of Australian new submarines has been signed.

A $605 million contract has been signed to nail down the final design of Australia's new submarines.

The detailed architecture for the hull of the Attack class subs, including the placement of the main systems, will be determined under the contract signed between Naval Group Australia and Adelaide-based shipbuilder ASC.

It will allow the progress of design work through to 2021.

"The timeframe for the submarine design contract takes into account the detailed design work required, ensuring we have a mature design which avoids costly rework," Defence Industry Minister Linda Reynolds said.

"This will help deliver a sovereign, regionally superior submarine capability, which will be built, operated and sustained in Australia."