Annual Report 2004-05

Approved Major Capital Equipment Projects

Top 30 Projects by 2004-05 Expenditure

SEA 1448 Ph 2A Anti-Ship Missile Defence

Alliance agreement: Anzac Ship Alliance with Tenix and SAAB

This project will provide the Anzac-class frigates with a reasonable level of self-defence against modern anti-ship missiles. This phase of the project has been split into two sub-phases.

Phase 2A aims to deliver an initial operational capability by 2008 which will include the upgrade of the fire control radar and command and control system, and the installation of an infra-red search and tracking capability. Initial risk reduction studies were completed in mid-2004. Project approval for Phase 2A was achieved in January 2004, and the Project Alliance Agreement and Project Charter were signed in May 2005. The tender evaluation of the Infra Red Search and Track (IRST) suppliers has been completed and a contract signed with Sagem Defence Securities to supply their Vampir system.

Phase 2B will complete the anti-ship missile defence capability by the introduction of multiple channels of fire to enable more than one weapon to be controlled in flight. This phase will include the introduction of Australian-developed phased array radar technologies, capable of supporting multiple engagements against incoming missile threats.

The project did not achieve its revised expenditure due to delays in the completion of risk reduction studies and finalisation of contracts prior to the commencement of work under a Project Alliance Agreement. This was important for cost-containment.

This project contributes to Navy capability.