Michelle Miller
In the ever-evolving landscape of naval technology, the formation of the AUKUS partnership in 2021 marked a significant milestone. This alliance between the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia aimed to modernize the Royal Australian Navy by introducing a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. Embarking on the ambitious journey of establishing a nuclear submarine program from scratch, the Australian Navy turned to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for invaluable expertise. This article delves into MIT’s role in shaping the Australian Submarine Agency’s (ASA) nuclear program through its groundbreaking executive education course.
The Genesis of Collaboration:
The spark for collaboration ignited when Australian Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead suggested sending staff to MIT for specialized training shortly after the AUKUS announcement. This casual remark reached Jacopo Buongiorno, a prominent figure at MIT, serving as the professor of nuclear science and engineering and director of the Center for Advanced Nuclear Energy Systems. Inspired by this suggestion, MIT developed a three-week executive education course titled “Nuclear Technology for Marine Propulsion.”
Course Overview:
The course attracted 20 senior leaders from the ASA and other officials, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of nuclear technology for marine propulsion. Topics covered ranged from fundamental nuclear reactor theory and design to operations, safety, training, and the operation of nuclear shipyards. Benoit Forget, NSE department head, emphasized the importance of establishing foundational safety principles, crucial for the long-term success of Australia’s nuclear submarine project.
Expert-Led Sessions:
MIT’s faculty, alongside external subject matter experts, led the sessions, which featured distinguished guests such as MIT Vice President for Research Maria Zuber and retired U.S. Navy admirals Jim Ellis and John Richardson. Buongiorno highlighted the richness of the technical content, starting with nuclear physics and expanding into softer aspects like safety culture, training, oversight, supply chain, and the role of national labs.
Critical Success Factors:
Drawing lessons from the successful U.S. nuclear naval propulsion program, Buongiorno emphasized the equal importance of technology, people, and governance. The course underlined the significance of in-depth training and the creation of a robust safety culture, given the unforgiving nature of nuclear reactors. MIT stressed that this executive education wasn’t solely technical but encompassed the broader aspects that determine the success or failure of a nuclear technology program.
Educational Legacy:
While MIT’s ASA course is the latest addition to its professional education offerings, it follows the legacy of the “Reactor Technology Course for Nuclear Utility Executives,” which MIT has offered for over three decades. Both courses share a common goal: to equip participants with a fundamental understanding of nuclear technology, enabling them to make informed decisions in their respective roles.
Global Impact:
MIT’s commitment to international involvement and impact was evident in its engagement with the ASA. The course’s participants, comprising senior leaders from the Australian navy, government, and policy community, hold pivotal roles, potentially resulting in significant impacts on Australia’s nuclear submarine program. MIT’s role in global nuclear safety was further exemplified through events like the Global Forum Rising Stars Workshop and the David J. Rose Lecture given by IAEA Director General Mariano Grossi.
Central to MIT’s Mission:
Providing executive education is central to MIT NSE’s mission, extending beyond technology development and student education. MIT NSE has launched various courses catering to policymakers, legislators, journalists, and the broader community. The department’s commitment to informing stakeholders about the beneficial uses of nuclear science and technologies is evident in its extensive course offerings, showcasing MIT’s dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration on a global scale.
MIT’s role in empowering Australia’s nuclear submarine program through its executive education course reflects a commitment to knowledge sharing and international collaboration. As Australia navigates the complexities of establishing a nuclear submarine program, the insights gained from MIT’s expertise will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in ensuring the success and safety of this ambitious endeavor. The ASA course stands as a testament to MIT’s broader mission of not only educating its students but also informing and empowering communities worldwide about the transformative potential of nuclear science and technology.
