Adelaide-based Cold Logic has secured a multi-million dollar contract to construct and install cold and cool rooms for the first batch of three Hunter class frigates, which are being built at Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia.
As part of the project, Cold Logic will collaborate with UK company Ernest West & Beynon (EWB) to leverage its experience in supplying into the Type 26 program– the reference design for the Hunter class frigates.
Cold Logic, which is about to celebrate its 40th year in business, specialises in delivering bespoke refrigeration and climate control system solutions for large-scale food and beverage companies, pharmaceutical, cold storage industries, and now the defence sector.
“Through Cold Logic’s demonstrated expertise in providing a superior service, and Ernest West & Beynon’s proven capability on the Type 26 program, we are getting a world-class product for a world-class ship,” said Craig Lockhart, managing director of BAE Systems Australia – Maritime.
Jeff Cannan, founder and director of Cold Logic, explained that through early involvement in the project and partnership, Cold Logic and BAE Systems Australia can optimise the skills and expertise that already exist in Australia and make use of the local supply chain.
“Cold Logic’s commitment to the Australian defence sector and sovereign capability has been evident since the establishment of our dedicated defence division in 2017 following successful projects to upgrade and sustain the Collins Class Submarine Platform’s provision refrigeration systems,” Canaan noted.
In a media release, BAE Systems Australia said it is working closely with the Commonwealth to maximise Australian content on the Hunter Class Frigate Program and noted that it is tracking well above the minimum Australian Contract Expenditure for the design, productionisation phase of the Hunter program.
“We are committed to working together with the Commonwealth to support Australian businesses in order for them to grow their own capability, and our Australian Contract Expenditure reflects this,” Lockhart said.
“The Hunter program is more than just building one class of ship – it is about creating and growing an enduring industry here in Australia, which will allow us to build and sustain our own warships for generations to come.”
