UBH Group Pioneers Australia's Path to Nuclear Sovereignty
Sovereign technology company, UBH Group, has achieved a landmark milestone as the first organisation in the Southern Hemisphere to secure ISO 19443 certification.
This internationally recognised standard underscores UBH’s commitment to safety, quality, and excellence in the nuclear supply chain, which will be critical to the success of AUKUS.
UBH is calling on Australia’s small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to begin their own certification journeys, crucial for supporting the nation’s ambitious nuclear agenda, including the rotational presence at HMAS Stirling of, one UK and up to 4 US, nuclear-powered submarines to be known as Submarine Rotational Force - West (SRF-West).
There are gaps in Australia's current supply chain ecosystem that do not align with international nuclear standards. Unless these gaps are bridged Australian companies will not be capable of supporting the nation's AUKUS initiatives and broader defence goals. ISO 19443 ensures rigorous quality management tailored for organisations supplying products and services to nuclear facilities, enabling UBH to take a leading role in supporting Australia’s nuclear development efforts.
“Achieving ISO 19443 certification is an important step that allows us to begin to support the nuclear supply chain here in Australia. Everything from nuclear reactor components down to the adhesives and bolts used around them requires an extra level of diligence,” said UBH Co-founder and CEO Jeff Batten.
“We have a lot of work to do in order to be prepared for SRF-West.ISO 19443 certification takes 12 to 18 months, and SRF-West is due to take place in 2027,” he said.
“Those submarines will need a supply chain to maintain them, and right now we are not ready. We need the entire supply chain to mobilise and align with this international standard to ensure Australia’s readiness.”
Mark Schneider, UBH’s Chief Nuclear Officer and a seasoned nuclear engineer with decades of experience in the US Navy, emphasised the certification’s broader implications.
“This accomplishment is not just about UBH. It’s about inspiring Australia’s SMEs to rise to the challenge and engage in the global nuclear supply chain,” he said.
“From adhesives to specialised tools, every component matters in creating a safe, efficient, and world-class nuclear ecosystem.”
Since its inception in 2020, UBH has emerged as a trailblazer in sovereign capabilities, doubling its workforce and significantly increasing revenue. This certification marks another milestone as UBH helps lay the foundation for Australia’s nuclear future.
Pic - UBH Chief Nuclear Officer Mark Schneider (L) and Co-founder and CEO Jeff Batten
More information at: www.ubhgroup.com.au
