Australian navy strengthens ship defences and sensors in face of new threats
The MASS defensive decoy system will be installed on Australian frigates and destroyers. (Photo: Rheinmetall)
With new threats looming, Australia is improving its ship defences against missiles, as well as boosting its submarine detection capacity.
Australia announced on 5 May that it was procuring the Multi-Ammunition Soft-Kill System (MASS) from Rheinmetall Defence Australia, while a day earlier the US government announced approval to sell a passive towed-array sensor to Australia.
MASS will be installed on ANZAC-class frigates and Hobart-class destroyers of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
The A$180 million ($121.6 million) contract, to be implemented over a five-year period, will enhance these vessels’ ability to defend themselves against anti-ship missiles. The equipment will be assembled at Rheinmetall’s facility in Brisbane, creating up to 45 new jobs.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs]()
Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs
The company has invested $80 million to enhance its facilities and establish a new maritime division.
-
![How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?]()
How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?
Although both countries still operate Cold War-era platforms, they possess capable nuclear-powered and armed submarines and are investing in the development of new, advanced capabilities.
-
![US Coast Guard to invest more than $5 billion in the Heritage Class Offshore Patrol Cutter]()
US Coast Guard to invest more than $5 billion in the Heritage Class Offshore Patrol Cutter
From FY2026 to FY2029, the OPC programme will receive funds from the Reconciliation Bill and the Coast Guard annual budget.
-
![Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds]()
Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds
Australia has selected the Mogami-class frigate from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to replace Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigates. The decision has been made as the RAN pushes to introduce delayed offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), awaits criticised Hunter-class ships and lives in the shadow of threats to the Collins-class submarine replacement efforts.
