RAN commissions HMAS Hobart
The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has commissioned its first Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD), HMAS Hobart, the Australian Department of Defence announced on 23 September.
HMAS Hobart was constructed in Australia by the AWD Alliance.
The vessel will provide air defence for accompanying ships in addition to land forces and infrastructure in coastal areas and self-protection against missiles and aircraft.
Hobart is the first of three destroyers that will enter service in coming years. The vessel will now undergo a test and evaluation period where the ship will integrate into the fleet and navy personnel will train to operate the warship.
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