Serco Secures Synthetic Warfare Training Contract, Advancing Australian Navy Readiness

January 13, 2026

Serco has won an expansion of its contract to deliver maritime warfare training services at HMAS Watson, Sydney and HMAS Stirling, Western Australia – the country’s Naval warfare training establishments.  

The total contract value is more than £80 million (over AUD$160m) if all extensions are exercised. The initial five-year term has five, one-year extension options.   

This renewed partnership with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) underscores Serco’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, mission-ready training solutions that align with RAN’s strategic objective to prepare officers and sailors to fight and win at sea.  

The successful rebid builds on Serco’s longstanding relationship with the RAN, dating back to 2003, and reflects the Navy’s confidence in Serco’s ability to deliver high-quality, technology-enhanced training that meets the evolving demands of modern maritime warfare.  

Serco’s solution integrates advanced simulation technologies and synthetic warfare environments to ensure Navy personnel are equipped for the complex scenarios they will face at sea. The training program harnesses the extensive expertise of our maritime warfare specialists, integrating immersive Navigation and Warfare simulations, AI-driven scenario planning, and real-time, software-enabled training solutions to elevate the operational readiness of Navy personnel.  

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.  

Anthony Kirby, Serco Group plc Chief Executive Officer said:  

“This contract win reflects the strength of Serco’s expertise in mission-critical defence services and our role as a trusted partner to the Royal Australian Navy, delivering world-class, innovative training solutions to strengthen Australia’s maritime readiness.  

“We’re proud to support the Royal Australian Navy’s mission and play a key role in shaping the next generation of officers and sailors, preparing them for the evolving demands of modern conflicts.”  

Source : Serco Inc.