Hunter-Class Frigate Program Reaches Key Milestone

The Hunter-class Frigate Program has achieved a significant milestone with the consolidation of the first two machinery units for its inaugural ship. This development marks a crucial step in the construction phase, as BAE Systems Australia works to deliver advanced warships for the Royal Australian Navy. The two steel units, designated UB31T and UB21T, are now integral components of the ship’s keel, setting the stage for further construction.

Construction Progress and Design Features

BAE Systems Australia has reported that the two machinery units, UB31T and UB21T, are part of hull block 3, which will accommodate essential auxiliary machinery, plumbing systems, and cold storage for perishables. Additionally, this section will feature an elevator designed to facilitate the movement of food and equipment between the galley and mess hall located on the upper decks. The construction process involves a standard shipbuilding technique where these large hull sections are assembled upside down, allowing for easier access and workability. The units were fused together using MIG welding torches, ensuring a robust and secure connection.

During the prototyping phase, the team meticulously refined the construction process to optimize efficiency. They measured distortion and shrinkage rates of the prototype units, incorporating this data into the ongoing build process. Each of the six Hunter-class frigates will consist of 22 hull blocks, which will be made up of one to seven consolidated steel units, showcasing a complex yet efficient design.

The Hunter-class frigates are set to replace the aging Anzac-class vessels in the Royal Australian Navy. Each ship will have a full load displacement of 8,800 tonnes and measure approximately 150 meters in length. They will be equipped with advanced capabilities, including anti-submarine warfare systems, a 24-cell strike length Mk 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) for long-range weapons like the Tomahawk missile, and a vertical launch silo for Sea Ceptor anti-air missiles. Notably, the frigates will also feature a 5-inch gun and the ability to land a Chinook helicopter on their flight decks. The steel cutting for the first Hunter-class frigate took place at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide, with deliveries anticipated in the 2030s.