The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia for Hobart Class Destroyer Sustainment and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $275 million.
The Government of Australia has requested a possible sale of follow-on sustainment support and services in support of three Hobart Class Destroyers. The sustainment efforts will include AEGIS computer software and hardware updates, system integration and testing, tools and test equipment, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, aircrew trainer devices upgrades, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, and other related elements of logistics and program support.
The proposed sale will improve Australia’s capability in current and future coalition efforts. Australia will use the enhanced capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defense.
The principal contractor will be Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training in Washington, District of Columbia. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
The Hobart class is a ship class of three air warfare destroyers (AWDs) being built for the Australian Navy. Besides being dedicated to the defence of a naval force, the planned Australian destroyers would also be able to operate in anti-surface, anti-submarine, and naval gunfire support roles.
Image: Australian Navy