First FFG up and running

By Michael Brooke
Volume 49, No. 8, May 18, 2006

STRONG LINE-UP (above): HMAS Sydney passes HMAS Darwin on her way into Sydney Harbour recently. The FFG was recently handed back to the Navy and DMO after successful trials.

OUT THERE (right): Sydney conducted two SM-1 missile firings to test the launcher and Fire Control System in April.

The RAN’s FFG Upgrade Project involving four Adelaide-class guided missile frigates took an important step forward when the contractor ADI formally handed back HMAS Sydney (CMDR Peter Quinn) to DMO and the Navy recently.

Sydney’s successful sea trials involved testing the upgraded Mk 92 Mod 12 Fire Control System and associated radars paved the way for the handback ceremony conducted at FBE on April 28.

CMDR Quinn told Navy News that handback marked a major milestone in Sydney’s journey to contractual provisional acceptance in late 2006.

CMDR Quinn also acknowledged “the professionalism and dedication” of Sydney’s ship’s company through the highs and lows of the upgrade.

“We’ve probably had well in excess of 300 personnel serve in Sydney since the upgrade work began in September 2003 and I am extremely proud of each person’s magnificent contribution,” he said.

CDRE Drew McKinnie, Director-General Major Surface Ships, said handback does not mark the end of Sydney’s technological improvements.

As the lead ship in the upgrade project she will continue to serve as the prototype ship for further software improvements and enhanced war fighting capabilities.

CDRE McKinnie said Sydney’s handback provides Navy with a useable capability that will receive updated combat system software to contracted requirements by the end of 2006.

Sydney completed its installation phase and proceeded to sea for initial contractor sea trials in December 2004 and after completing essential non-upgrade related hull repairs, recommenced sea trials in October 2005.
CDRE McKinnie said these trials have progressed well.

“Two SM-1 missile firings to test the launcher and Fire Control System (FCS) were successfully fired from Sydney using the upgraded Mk 92 Mod 12 Fire Control System and associated radars during April,” he said.

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