BAE poaches big Hunter trophy in Australia
As was expected by many, the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has plumped for the BAE Systems design for its nine Future Frigates that are being acquired under the SEA 5000 programme.
Although news of the deal had leaked on 28 June, BAE Systems at the time declined to comment. However, in the early hours of 29 June 2018, the company released a statement welcoming the Australian government’s decision.
The project to build these Global Combat Ship - Australia warships is valued at A$35 billion ($25.8 billion) – at least at this point before any cost blowout occurs.
Australian prime
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition
Schiebel is pursuing opportunities in the UK and France while leveraging its integration with Naval Group’s FDI frigate programme to create new naval business across Europe.
-
Eurosatory 2026: Red Cat eyes South American market for USV-led EEZ surveillance
Success with the US Army’s Black Widow programme may have strengthened Red Cat’s international position, but executives believe the next growth opportunity lies in uncrewed surface vessels.
-
US weighs offshore warship production due to industrial limits
A Pentagon push to procure warships from Japanese and South Korean shipyards could reshape allied naval industrial strategy, but critics warn the approach risks hollowing out the domestic base Washington is seeking to restore.
-
Lessons shaping the next phase of Arleigh Burke production post-Flight IIA
The accelerated delivery of the final Flight IIA destroyer, USS Patrick Gallagher, showcases the payoff of years of workforce investment and process reform at Bath Iron Works, with the lessons feeding into Flight III production.