HMAS Choules

Commissioned in December 2011, HMAS Choules is an amphibious Bay Class Landing Ship Dock (LSD) ship based on the Royal Schelde Enforcer design. It is a 16,000 tonne ship capable of carrying over 300 troops, 23 Abrams tanks, 150 light trucks, 2 landing craft, and is also capable of operating Navy helicopters including the MH-60R Seahawk and the Australian Army’s S-70A Black Hawk.

The ship originally entered service with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary on 28 November 2006 as RFA Largs Bay (L3006). The Bay Class is a proven capability with Largs Bay having provided humanitarian relief as part of the international response to the Haiti earthquake in 2010. On 17 March 2011, the Department of Defence announced that the Royal Australian Navy would be bidding for Largs Bay. This was followed on 6 April by news that a A$100 million (£65 million) bid had been successful.

The ship was formally handed to the Australian Defence Force in October 2011 following extensive sea trials to confirm the condition of the vessel. The ship also underwent a major refit to make her suitable for RAN service. This work included:

• overhauling the main propulsion system, including diesel generators and azimuths
• repainting the hull and flight deck
• upgrading the tropical cooling system
• upgrading and maintaining the salt water system
• overhauling the stern ramp
• extending the bridge front walkway
• various safety enhancements
• supplying and installing mexeflotes pontoons
• installing a temporary aircraft shelter.

Specifications