HMAS Parramatta undocks for trials

The sixth ANZAC class frigate, HMAS Parramatta, is set to begin its test and trials phase following the completion of 600,000 hours of complex systems integration and engineering work, BAE Systems Australia announced on 19 April.

The vessel has now undocked at the Henderson facility and work on HMAS Stuart will begin in May. The seventh ship of class, HMAS Toowoomba, is mid-way through her upgrade. 

The Royal Australian Navy ANZAC class frigates are being upgraded under the Anti-Ship Missile Defence (ASMD) programme. Each ship’s combat management system is being upgraded and a new infrared search and track system is being introduced, together with a new dual navigation radar.

A number of other significant engineering and structural changes that are unique to each vessel are also being made. These include enclosing the quarter deck, galley refurbishment and modifications to accommodate combat helicopters.

The project is being undertaken through the Anzac Ship Integrated Material Support Program Alliance comprising BAE Systems, Saab Systems and the Defence Department’s Capability and Sustainment Acquisition Group.

Glynn Phillips, chief executive, BAE Systems Australia, said: ‘The work we’re doing at Henderson demonstrates the quality of our engineering, programme management and builds on the flexibility of Australian industry capability that is only possible with an experienced Australian maritime defence provider. 

‘Our highly skilled workforce is at the core of our capability, ensuring that the project achieves the quality, cost and schedule milestones despite the enormous complexity of such work. Our team, together with our ANZAC Alliance partners, is very proud to support the Royal Australian Navy and its efforts by successfully implementing a world leading defence capability.’