HMAS Arunta receives new mast
Royal Australian Navy Anzac-class frigate, HMAS Arunta, has received its new mast as part of its Mid Life Capability Assurance Program (AMCAP) being undertaken at BAE Systems Australia’s Henderson facility.
The new mast has been manufactured by BAE Systems as part of the Warship Asset Management Agreement between BAE Systems, SAAB Australia, Naval Ship Management and the Commonwealth of Australia.
The mast installation is one of the last major works on the ship ahead of its undocking before the end of 2018. The vessel will then undergo sea trials ahead of a planned return to service in 2019.
The new mast is taller and wider than the existing mast in order to accommodate the new CEA L-Band radar system, while retaining the existing anti-ship missile defence radar capability. The new L-Band radar capability will be integrated into the existing combat management systems of the ship by SAAB Australia.
Upon completion of the AMCAP, HMAS Arunta will have upgraded ventilation systems; new sewage systems; improvements to the control and monitoring system; engine modifications to improve power and efficiency; and a new communications suite.
The control and monitoring system of the ship has also received a technological enhancement, replacing existing analogue technology with digital. Integration of the communications system into the existing data communications systems has been closely managed during design by Leonardo.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Ireland orders Thales towed array sonar]()
Ireland orders Thales towed array sonar
Ireland has a large Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which extends 370km (200nm) offshore and contains 75% of the transatlantic subsea cables which carry $10 trillion in financial transactions daily. The country is investing to increase protection and surveillance of these waters.
-
![South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs]()
South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs
HHI and Hanwha Ocean outline highly autonomous and unmanned-enabled designs as the ROKN explores force structure for the 2030s and beyond.
-
![US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026]()
US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026
The FY26 Homeland Security Bill Markup of the House Committee on Appropriations included resources for the procurement of ships, aircraft and unmanned systems.
-
![US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs]()
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
![Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy]()
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.
