J Class

Explore the Legacy of Australia's J-Class Submarines

HMAS J4 in Fitzroy Dock at Cockatoo Dockyard

Image provided by Royal Australian Navy

At the end of World War I, the Admiralty had recommended to the British Cabinet that six destroyers and six submarines of the latest type be gifted to Australia.

Australia’s Minister for Navy (Sir Joseph Cook) – in England at the time – recommended this be agreed. The offered gift of six J Class submarines was thus “gratefully accepted” by the Government

Four Australian J Class submarines alongside in Portsmouth preparing to depart for Australia.

Image provided by Royal Australian Navy

Australian J Class submarines in Portsmouth Harbour (UK) about to start their passage to Australia