Ewen Levick and Nigel Pittaway discuss the Hunter Class Frigate Program, with build of the first three ships well under way and more information being supplied about the ship design and the program itself.
After discussing the current status, we consider the ship's design which is based on the UK's Type 26 Frigate, itself a replacement for their Type 23, noting the complexity of the design, its need to run as quietly as possible, and the differences Australia has introduced to the baseline. We also note that while Norway is buying the identical ship to the UK's design, the Canadians have also elected to modify the design for their River Class Frigates.
We also address the issues raised in the mainstream media regarding the Hunter being overweight, over budget and late. While the Australian changes have added 500 tonnes to the design and increased the beam, the 2% performance impact against the Type 26 is considered within margins, especially given the increased capability it will have given the CEA radar and Aegis installation. It is acknowledged that the original budget of $35bn has increased to $44bn, however this appears to cover infrastructure build at Osborne in addition to the ship build itself. BAE Systems state that their $11.9bn contract for the first three ships is very close to their original estimate supplied to the government.
The original schedule from 2019 has been delayed by 18 months due to COVID, the Type 26 design not being as mature as epxected, and delays from Australian design changes. The rebaselined schedule is currently being followed and the first ship is expected to be delivered in 2031. We wrap by noting the Australian industry that's already involved in the Hunter program and the opportunities for exports into the Global Combat Ship program which covers all four countries that will operate the Type 26.
Links:
Not just about building ships – Hunter Class Frigate Program
www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/not-just-about-building-ships-hunter-class-frigate-program
BAE Systems graduates first Hunter Class Frigate Program cohort
A quiet Hunter - Navy's Future Frigate
www.australiandefence.com.au/defence/sea/a-quiet-hunter-navy-s-future-frigate
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