BAE Systems Breaks Ground on New Hunter-Class Frigates for Australian Navy.

Australia has commenced the construction of Hunter-class frigates at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide, as announced by BAE Systems on June 21, 2024. Inspired by the Type 26 Global Combat Ship, this new class of warships marks a critical advancement from the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN) Anzac-class frigates, which have been in service since 1996.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Artist's Impression of BAE Systems SEA 5000 Future Frigate (Picture source: BAE Systems)

The recent steel-cutting ceremony for the Hunter-class ships signifies the start of this ambitious project aimed at modernizing Australia's maritime forces. The steel cut will form part of the structural support for the port side propeller shaft brake system, showcasing the intricate naval architecture involved.

Designed as multi-mission vessels, the Hunter-class frigates will primarily focus on anti-submarine warfare while also being capable of air defense, anti-surface warfare, and conducting surveillance and intelligence tasks. Additionally, the ships will be equipped to manage humanitarian and disaster relief efforts as well as interdiction activities.

Each frigate will feature an open systems architecture to facilitate ongoing support and accommodate future technological upgrades. This feature highlights the strategic foresight of the RAN to maintain operational relevance in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. The involvement of over 900 indigenous suppliers in the Hunter program underscores the commitment to leveraging local expertise and resources.

The contract for these cutting-edge frigates was awarded to BAE Systems Maritime Australia back in December 2018, with an adjustment in the planned number of ships from nine to six following a strategic fleet restructuring in February 2024. The total project is valued at approximately $26 billion, demonstrating the significant investment into ensuring the RAN remains at the forefront of maritime defense capability.

The construction phase of the Hunter-class frigates is expected to span 20 years, aiming for the first vessel to achieve operational capability by 2034. This prolonged timeline reflects the complexity and scale of the endeavor but also provides substantial economic benefits through the creation of around 3,000 direct jobs and an additional 5,000 indirect roles throughout the Australian supply chain.

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has lauded the project, noting its crucial role in solidifying continuous naval shipbuilding in the region, which not only secures thousands of jobs but also enhances the state’s economic complexity. This initiative places South Australia at the heart of Australia’s naval future, alongside the parallel development of SSN-AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines and upgrades to Collins-class submarines.

This strategic development represents a significant leap in Australia's defense capabilities, ensuring that the Royal Australian Navy remains equipped with some of the most technologically advanced, stealth-capable anti-submarine warfare vessels in the world.