Serco is ramping up its maritime warfare training services for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) with an expanded contract. The deal covers operations at HMAS Watson in Sydney and HMAS Stirling in Western Australia, the country’s key naval warfare training hubs. This isn’t just a contract renewal—it’s a vote of confidence in Serco’s ability to deliver cutting-edge training that aligns with the RAN’s strategic goals.
The partnership, which dates back to 2003, is now entering a new phase with a focus on advanced simulation technologies and synthetic warfare environments. These tools are designed to prepare Navy personnel for the complex scenarios they’ll face at sea. Serco’s solution integrates immersive Navigation and Warfare simulations, AI-driven scenario planning, and real-time, software-enabled training solutions. The goal? To elevate the operational readiness of Navy personnel to new heights.
Central to this innovation is Serco’s strategic teaming arrangement with CAE, Sayres Australia, and JMC—a veteran-owned Australian SME. These partnerships bring together over 125 years of collective experience in defence training and technology. CAE contributes global expertise in synthetic warfare simulation. Sayres Australia drives forward-thinking approaches to training delivery and operational capability uplift. JMC delivers bespoke technology solutions and SME-led enhancements tailored to Navy needs.
Andrew Head, Chief Executive Officer, Serco Asia Pacific, said this contract renewal reinforces Serco’s role as a trusted capability partner for Defence, delivering advanced training solutions that harness innovation to strengthen Australia’s maritime readiness: “By continuously investing in innovation and applying deep operational insight, we ensure Navy personnel are prepared for the evolving demands of modern conflict. Serco is committed to driving capability uplift and supporting the RAN in achieving its mission with confidence and precision.”
David Astbury, General Manager for Defence at Serco Asia Pacific, said this contract renewal reflects the Royal Australian Navy’s continued trust in Serco and our partners to deliver world-class training solutions: “Together with CAE, Sayres Australia and JMC, we’re building a future-ready training ecosystem that combines deep expertise, advanced simulation technologies, and agile delivery to prepare Navy personnel for the complexities of modern maritime operations.”
“We’re proud to support the Navy’s mission and play a role in shaping the next generation of officers and sailors. Through innovation and collaboration, we’re helping equip them with the confidence, capability and resilience needed to lead in an increasingly dynamic strategic environment.”
This expanded contract is more than just business as usual. It’s a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in driving innovation in defence training. By integrating advanced technologies and leveraging the expertise of its partners, Serco is helping the RAN stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly complex and dynamic strategic environment.
The RAN’s confidence in Serco’s ability to deliver high-quality, technology-enhanced training underscores the importance of continuous investment in innovation and operational insight. As modern maritime warfare evolves, so too must the training programs that prepare personnel to face its challenges. With this expanded contract, Serco is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of maritime warfare training in Australia.