RAN ASMD programme progresses

On-dock production activities as part of HMAS Ballarat’s Anti-Ship Missile Defence (ASMD) upgrade are now complete, and the vessel has returned to the Material Control of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). 

The vessel was undocked on 2 September at BAE Systems Henderson (WA) shipyard after 56 weeks on the hardstand as part of the ASMD upgrade and vital maintenance work. 

The ASMD programme includes the upgrade of the vessel’s combat management system and the introduction of an infrared search and track system, a phased array radar and dual navigation radar system. 

While the ships are on the hard stand for the ASMD upgrade, other complex engineering and structural changes are being made to the frigates, including enclosing the quarterdeck and modifications to accommodate the MH-60 Romeo naval helicopters.

Ballarat will now be berthed at Henderson to conduct systems set to works and harbour trials. The BAE Systems Henderson facility will continue to focus on the ASMD upgrade programme, with work on HMAS Parramatta, and preparations to dock HMAS Toowoomba continuing.

The work was completed through the Anzac Ship Integrated Material Support Program Alliance comprising BAE Systems, Saab Systems and the Department of Defence Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG). The programme is on-track to be completed in 2017 and will include upgrades to a further three vessels, including HMAS Parramatta, Toowoomba and Stuart.

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