Hunter Class frigate

The Hunter Class frigate, which is a modified version of BAE System’s Type 26 frigate, will be one of the most advanced anti-submarine warships in the world. The six Hunter Class frigates will be built in Australia by ASC Shipbuilding (now known as BAE Systems Maritime Australia, a subsidiary of BAE Systems Australia Ltd) at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia.

The Hunter Class frigates will provide the Australian Defence Force with high levels of lethality and deterrence that major surface combatants need in periods of global uncertainty. They will have the capability to conduct a variety of missions with sufficient range and endurance to operate effectively throughout the region. The frigates will also have the flexibility to support non-warfare roles such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Incorporating the leading edge Australian-developed CEA Phased-Array Radar and the US Navy’s Aegis combat management system, with an Australian interface developed by Saab Australia, and modified to operate the MH-60R Seahawk Romeo helicopter, the Hunter Class will be one of the most capable warships in the world.

The first three ships of the Hunter Class will proudly carry the names of three major Australian regions, HMAS Hunter, HMAS Flinders (II) and HMAS Tasman. The class name was specifically chosen for the alternate interpretation of a ‘hunter’ personifying the role of the frigates as a submarine hunter, with the term embodying the pursuit of prey.

The Hunter Class will begin entering service in the early 2030s.

Specifications

Type Frigate, Guided Missile (FFG)
Roles
  • Anti-submarine warfare
  • Air defence
  • Surface warfare
  • Surveillance and intelligence
  • Interdiction
  • Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
Builder BAE Systems Maritime Australia /ASC Shipbuilding
Displacement Lightship weight approx. 8,200 tonnes (Sep 24)
Length 151.4 metres
Beam 20.8 metres
Propulsion Combined Diesel Electric or Gas (CODLOG)
Speed 27+ knots (top speed)
Range 7000nm (electric motor drive)
Combat system Aegis with Saab Australia Interface
Weapons
Sensors
  • CEAFAR2 radar
  • S2150 Hull Mounted Sonar
  • S2087 towed array and variable depth sonar
  • Electro-optical sensors
  • Electronic warfare systems
Aircraft 1 x MH-60R helicopter with mission bay for uncrewed system or additional helicopter
Company 183 crew including embarked helicopter crew with accommodation and services for up to 208

Function

Frigate