Australian Navy launches first AWD
The Royal Australian Navy launched the first of three Air Warfare Destroyers (AWDs), Hobart, alongside the Port River wharf in Adelaide on 23 May.
The second AWD, Brisbane, is currently in an advanced state of fit-out. More than half the blocks have already been consolidated on the hardstand so far. With the Hobart launched, Brisbane will be next to undergo final block consolidation. The keel of the third AWD, Sydney, will also be laid.
Once operational, the three warships will take on a leading command and control role in the Australian Defence Force and coalition forces, capable of carrying out multi-mission operations.
The AWD programme is being conducted by the AWD Alliance, which includes the lead shipbuilder ASC, the Department of Defence and mission systems integrator Raytheon Australia. The US Navy, Navantia, Lockheed Martin, Forgacs, BAE Systems and MG Engineering also support the programme.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy’s MUSV programme could lay the USV procurement blueprint for NATO allies]()
US Navy’s MUSV programme could lay the USV procurement blueprint for NATO allies
The programme’s structure as a marketplace will allow multiple companies to compete for ongoing procurements; an approach which could be replicated across the Atlantic.
-
![Funding for the future US Navy Trump-class battleship sparks controversy in Congress]()
Funding for the future US Navy Trump-class battleship sparks controversy in Congress
Lawmakers question the US Navy’s proposed $2 billion investment in the Trump-class battleship as concerns over cost, technology maturity and operational relevance fuel growing bipartisan scrutiny on Capitol Hill.
-
![Germany sinks F126 frigate programme in favour of cheaper MEKO A-200]()
Germany sinks F126 frigate programme in favour of cheaper MEKO A-200
On 24 June 2026, the German Ministry of Defence announced it was cancelling the F126 frigate programme in favour of procuring eight MEKO A-200 DEU frigates.
-
![UK’s Type 31 frigate balances cost pressure with long-term export ambition]()
UK’s Type 31 frigate balances cost pressure with long-term export ambition
The UK shipbuilder’s full-year results to the end of March revealed the impact of the £140 million charge linked to design changes and rework on the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigate programme.
