The requirement for the Hobart Class air warfare destroyers (AWDs) was outlined in the 2000 Defence White Paper and the aquisition of three ships was confirmed in the 2009 Defence White Paper.
Following reviews of defence procurement and of naval shipbuilding, the Government directed an innovative alliance based contracting strategy for the AWD project. This strategy aims to achieve improved contract performance (schedule, budget, capability and risk management) by improving government and industry interaction.
The philosophy behind the alliance strategy is to integrate Defence and industry to ensure best for project outcomes based upon a pain-share and gain-share contracting strategy.
What is known as the Alliance Based Target Incentive Agreement (ABTIA) focuses on cooperation, collaboration and joint decision-making while providing the Government with the right to intervene to protect the national interest.
Under the Agreement the industry participants are responsible for delivering the AWDs on time and on budget.
Australia's Hobart Class air warfare destroyers
Navantia's F104 ship design is the basis for the Hobart Class AWDs with the F104 basline being updated to incorporate:
- Key F105 features;
- Australian combat system modifications; and
- Selected platform upgrades that are unique to the Hobart Class.
Ship specifications for Australia's AWDs include:
|
Length
|
146.7 metres
|
|
Beam
|
18.6 metres
|
|
Draft
|
7.2 metres
|
| Displacement (full load) |
Up to 7,000 tonnes |
| Top Speed |
28+ knots |
| Range |
5,000+ nautical miles at 18+ knots |
| Crew |
Approx. 180 |
| Accommodation |
236 |
| Aviation |
Hangars: 1 |
| Boats |
Two rigid hulled inflatable boats |
In January 2006 the Government announced that the AWDs will be named HMAS Hobart, HMAS Brisbane and HMAS Sydney, ensuring the three ships reflect a rich history of service.
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