The Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Alliance has selected Ultra Electronics as the preferred supplier of the sonar system for the new Hobart class AWDs.
The Minister for Defence has been advised that the selection of Ultra Electronics would ensure the AWDs are equipped with a sonar system that provides excellent anti-submarine and torpedo defence capability.
The bow-mounted sonar is similar to those acquired for the UK’s Type 45 air warfare destroyers.
Ultra Electronics has already begun moves to set up shop in Adelaide and is looking for more opportunities in Australia to partner, or even buy, some local SMEs.
The AWD Alliance will shortly be issuing Requests for Tender to selected companies for work on the ships’ hull blocks, as well as work on other elements of the ships’ combat systems.