The Royal Australian Navy’s Hunter class frigates are set to be equipped with cutting-edge defence technology following BAE Systems Maritime Australia’s contract award to Ultra Maritime for its Surface Ship Torpedo Defence (SSTD) system. This integration aims to bolster the frigates’ capabilities against underwater threats, specifically torpedoes.
The SSTD system employs advanced acoustic detection methods and integrated countermeasures, significantly enhancing the fleet’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) abilities to protect Australia’s maritime interests. The system incorporates sonar technology and decoys that utilize acoustic signatures to determine the best evasive actions against detected torpedoes, such as zig-zag maneuvers or sharp turns. Ultra Maritime, based in Mawson Lakes, South Australia, is also tasked with delivering the Bow Sonar, which provides medium-range active and passive sonar for submarine detection.
Andy Coxall, BAE Systems Maritime Australia’s Delivery Director – Acquisition, emphasized the critical role of the Hunter class frigates in protecting Australia’s shores and ensuring the security of crucial maritime routes and undersea infrastructure. He highlighted Ultra Maritime’s global leadership in anti-submarine warfare as essential for equipping these vessels with next-generation naval capabilities, thereby preparing them to tackle evolving security challenges.
The partnership between BAE Systems and local suppliers like Ultra Maritime not only enhances the Hunter class frigate program but also strengthens Australia’s sovereign defence capabilities and reinforces the national defence supply chain. Jonathan Sadleir, Vice President and General Manager of Ultra Maritime’s Australian division, expressed pride in contributing significant capabilities that enhance the safety of naval ships and crews. He noted that this award is part of a broader strategy to expand the range of manned and unmanned vessels benefitting from Ultra Maritime’s innovative anti-submarine warfare technologies.
Furthermore, the collaboration positions Ultra Maritime to support future maritime programs under the AUKUS defence pact, which involves Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This development underscores commitment to growing Australia’s sovereign undersea warfare capabilities, ensuring that the Royal Australian Navy is equipped to respond to contemporary and future maritime threats effectively.
In conclusion, the integration of Ultra Maritime’s SSTD system into the Hunter class frigates marks a significant advancement in Australia’s naval defence strategy, fortifying the nation’s maritime security and its commitment to fostering domestic industry capabilities.
Source link
