The Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) program has reached another significant milestone, with the project’s first vessel – the Hobart – now entering the next phase of sea trials.
Hobart is the first of three future destroyers, alongside Brisbane and Sydney, which are being developed under the AWD program.
Minister for Defence Industries Martin Hamilton-Smith said the commencement of these acceptance sea trials – which involve a comprehensive testing of the ship’s combat, communications and additional platforms systems – follow the launch of second destroyer Brisbane in December last year and builders sea trials for Hobart in September 2016.
He also congratulated everyone involved in the project on the milestone.
“Congratulations to all involved in the Air Warfare Destroyer program, including ASC, Raytheon Australia, the Department of Defence and Navantia. I also acknowledge the excellent efforts of the small team of South Australian Government workers from Defence SA who have played an important role in the project’s success,” the Minister added.
“This milestone is further evidence of South Australia’s capabilities and world-class naval shipbuilding facilities at Techport Australia.”
The project is being delivered by the AWD Alliance, made up of the Australian Government’s Department of Defence, ASC, mission systems integrator Raytheon Australia, and Spanish shipbuilder Navantia.
The delivery of the AWD program is supported by the Common User Facility (CUF) at Techport Australia, which is owned and operated by the State Government through Defence SA.
“South Australian workers and industry have successfully delivered some of the most complex projects in Australia’s history and this pedigree is set to continue with Offshore Patrol Vessels, Future Frigates and Future Submarines all commencing at Techport Australia.” the Minister continued.
“These programs are set to transform our economy and the South Australian Government maintains its commitment to working with Defence and industry to maximise local industry involvement in the supply chain.”
