The ABC news this morning mentioned that there would be a continuous SSN AUKUS submarine building process at Osborne starting in early 2040’s but a short time later they said that they will be built at a drumbeat of one every 2 years (a good economical rate). But that construction rate would have the the 8th submarine completed many years before the first one is due for replacement (assuming the PWR3 reactor fuel is sufficient for in excess of 33 years) - it will be interesting how they will achieve a continuous building process!
Overall, I like this final package as the short term is covered by the acquisition of the Virginia class and, in the long term, the RAN will be getting a submarine that is up to date with the newest technology - including vertical payload tubes.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-...nced/102087614
Update: During the press interview, Richard Marles said that the drumbeat would be one SSN every 3 years, not 2 years as stated by the ABC. This still leaves a gap in the continuous shipbuilding unless the number of vessels is increased to 11 - desirable, but not likely.