STUART Slides In
May 3, 1999
It is all go for the construction of the 10 vessel ANZAC class of warship being built by the Australian shipbuilders Tenix.
Three are already commissioned and in service with the Australian and New Zealand Navies while a fourth begins final sea trials in a few days.
Another milestone in the ANZAC project was set on April 17 when 3,000 people watched STUART (No 153) launched by Mrs Maxine Barrie, wife of CDF ADML Chris Barrie at Tenix's Williamstown, Melbourne dockyard.
ADML Barrie was the commanding officer of HMAS STUART (2) after she was modernised at Williamstown in 1983.
STUART was the sixth ANZAC class vessel launched by Tenix.
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Her towering bow and proud
number 153 - STUART on her launch day.
Picture:LSPH Antoinette Aldworth. |
"New ships are being built and a world-class industry has been created.
"It is an industry that employs sophisticated technologies and highly trained professionals backed by leading edge suppliers," he said.
More than 1300 Australian and New Zealand companies are supplying services to the $5 billion project.
"Many of these companies have used the experience, expertise and capabilities they have developed as a supplier to the project to become stronger, more viable and expand into new areas and new markets," Mr Salteri said.
Tenix Defence Systems is building 10 ANZAC class ships, eight for Australia and two for New Zealand.
The project is the largest and most successful defence project in Australia.
HMAS ANZAC and HMAS ARUNTA are in service with the RAN while HMNZS TE KAHA is in service with the Royal New Zealand Navy.
Significantly all three ships were delivered with their combat systems fully functional. The fourth ship TE MANA will sail for final sea trials in a few days while WARRAMUNGA, launched in May 1998, will continue fitout before sea trials next year.
The keel of ship seven PARRAMATTA was laid on April 24.
STUART will be fitted out with sophisticated systems and equipment before she undergoes sea trials in 2000. She will be delivered to the RAN in early 2001.
Still to come are PARRAMATTA, due for delivery in January 2002, BALLARAT in December of that year, TOOWOOMBA due in November 2003 and PERTH for November of 2004.
By Graham Davis