ASMD upgrade of HMAS Stuart complete
BAE Systems Australia has completed the anti-ship missile defence (ASMD) upgrade of the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN’s) eighth Anzac-class frigate, HMAS Stuart, the company announced on 9 March.
The vessel has had its combat management system upgraded and an infrared search and track system installed, along with phased array radar and dual navigation radar system. The quarterdeck was also enclosed, and modifications were made to accommodate RAN helicopters.
HMAS Stuart will now undergo sea trials before resuming service.
Glynn Phillips, chief executive, BAE Systems Australia, said: ‘The upgrade of the fleet will provide sustained protection against anti-ship missile attack which is an essential element of Australia’s maritime capability. I am delighted that by working very closely with the RAN, the team has delivered this incredibly complex project ahead of schedule.
‘As well as the capability of our workforce, we relied on a healthy and vibrant ship building industry to deliver this critical programme to the navy.’
BAE Systems has now started preparing HMAS Perth for initial work as part of her Anzac Midlife Capability (AMCAP) upgrade. The $2 billion, six-year AMCAP programme includes upgrades to engines, propulsion, lighting, heating, cooling and communications systems, torpedo self-defence and Nulka enhancements.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Can the US Navy ask Indo-Pacific allies to do more while training with them less?
As the Iran War draws US ships and marine corps units away from the Indo-Pacific, curtailed exercises and a temporary carrier gap are exposing tensions between Washington’s demand for more self-reliant allies and the joint training needed to realise that ambition.
-
How could Rheinmetall’s GMF 140 fit with ongoing programmes in North America?
With Canada committed to its River-class replacement and the USN pursuing a lower-cost frigate, Rheinmetall will need to demonstrate where the GMF 140 can fill a capability gap in the North American fleet.
-
Australian industry programme builds pipeline for Virginia-class sustainment
Australian businesses can now bid to support Virginia-class submarine sustainment in Western Australia, as momentum around the Henderson Defence Precinct also builds.
-
South Korea, Japan and Turkey vie for US shipbuilding access in future frigate contest
Washington’s search for a foreign-built frigate could hand South Korea, Japan and Turkey a larger prize than a double-hull order: a foothold inside the US shipbuilding industrial base.
-
Russia’s uncrewed boat portfolio hints at future naval demand
Ukrainian intelligence has catalogued more than 20 Russian uncrewed surface vessels, revealing a portfolio weighted towards mine warfare and logistics, with implications for Western naval investment.