Australian taxpayers to pay $11bn to extend lifespan of ageing Collins-class submarines amid Aukus delay

Australian taxpayers will pay $11bn to extend the lifespan of Australia's ageing Collins-class submarines by another decade. The submarines were originally designed to have a 30-year working life and have already been operational for between 23 and 30 years. The extension will bridge the capability gap before the scheduled arrival of the first Aukus vessels in 2032.