Austal signs long-delayed shipbuilding pact as industry risks persist
Austal signs long-delayed Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, but schedule risks and programme delays still loom over Canberra’s naval plans.
Rendering of the KnightShield system in use. (Image: DSIT)
Defence and security solutions provider DSIT has showcased for the first time a mobile task force underwater security system called KnightShield.
As seen at the UDT event in Rotterdam on 7-9 June, the system supports the underwater protection of multiple ships within a naval task group while at port or other similar locations from swimmers, UUVs, SDVs, and sabotage attempts.
The 20ft (6.09m) ISO-containerised KnightShield is based on DSIT’s PointShield diver detection sonar system that provides medium-range coverage for multiple vessels while in port.
PointShield is designed as a ship-portable underwater security system that can be deployed in a narrow river,
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Austal signs long-delayed Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, but schedule risks and programme delays still loom over Canberra’s naval plans.
The company has invested $80 million to enhance its facilities and establish a new maritime division.
The US Navy’s Zumwalt-class destroyer is a stealth ship originally designed to consist of a fleet of 32 but has been cut back to three. Conceived for a land-attack role, it is now being fitted with a hypersonic missile capability.
The Cutter Storis officially entered service with the Branch on 10 August. The new capability will be operated from Juneau, Alaska.
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.
From FY2026 to FY2029, the OPC programme will receive funds from the Reconciliation Bill and the Coast Guard annual budget.