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Each ship will be fitted with six VLS modules, each
containing eight cells, giving a total of 48 cells per ship. Each cell
is capable of accepting, storing, preparing for launch, and launching
either a single SM-2 Missile or four Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles.
AWD Alliance CEO Rod Equid said the VLS load out is the first multi-module
VLS load out and has built on the in-country expertise developed through
the Navy’s FFG Upgrade Project which involved installing a single-module
VLS.
“Whilst the Anzac Class and Adelaide Class frigates have a single-module
Vertical Launch System, the new Hobart Class destroyers will have a multi-module
configuration that will provide more capacity for air warfare. It will
also be the first configured to fire SM-2 medium range weapons and has
the flexibility to support multiple missile types within a single weapon
launching system,” said Mr Equid.
“Complex installation work, such as VLS, involves different groups
working together to get the job done and has drawn on the technical expertise
of the Commonwealth of Australia, United States Navy and Thales. It has
been a true representation of how the Alliance operates.”
“The installation has been a coordinated activity between the AWD
Alliance’s Production and Test and Activation teams for the preparation
of the VLS compartment and providing the subject matter expertise for
pre-staging work.”
The modules were taken out of storage from an Adelaide warehouse facility
earlier this year and moved into the purpose-built Mobile Staging Platform
located alongside the ship on the Common User Facility at Osborne for
pre-staging work prior to installation. Following installation, the system
will be operationally tested during the upcoming Combat System Light Off
period.
The acquisition of the VLS modules was made by the Commonwealth of Australia,
through the United States Foreign Military Sales program.
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