Second AWD launched in Adelaide
Australia’s Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) programme has reached a new milestone, with the second destroyer named and launched in Adelaide.
The vessel has been named Brisbane. Over the coming months, outfitting of Brisbane and the installation of the combat system will continue.
Minister for Defence Industry, Christopher Pyne, said that Brisbane’s launch is a significant step towards the delivery of three warships to the Royal Australian Navy.
He said: ‘The [destroyers] will be one of the world’s most capable multi-purpose warships that will provide the Royal Australian Navy with air defence for accompanying ships, land forces and infrastructure in coastal areas.
‘The Brisbane will have cutting edge layered defensive and offensive resources capable of operating across of maritime operations, from providing entire task groups with air defence and escort duties, right through to law enforcement and rescue operations.’
The first AWD, Hobart, completed its builder sea trials in October and is set to undertake sea trials in 2017 to put onboard combat and communications systems through their paces. The third destroyer will now commence consolidation work.
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