HMAS Choules first Australian Navy ship to switch to Windows 10-based system

Royal Australian Navy’s Bay-class landing ship HMAS Choules is the Australian Navy ship to switch to a Windows 10-based system as part of an effort to modernize the fleet information environment.

The Royal Australian Navy Fleet’s information and communication technology systems are being improved after successful trials onboard HMAS Choules.

Project Jackstay, named after the traditional method of transferring provisions and people at sea, is giving better computer capabilities to vessels by moving to a contemporary, Windows 10-based system allowing faster access to modern applications and software, delivering significantly improved business processes as well as providing the Fleet with modern applications and services.

Commander Defence Strategic Communications, Brigadier Murray Thompson said the implementation in a complex environment was of particular note.

“This was an enormously complex task and indeed is a first, not just for the Navy, but the entire Department of Defence, in fielding a Windows 10 environment for our deployed elements,” Brigadier Thompson said.

Project Jackstay provides a range of benefits including faster operation, a more stable operating system, and an array of useful new software options to streamline ships’ activities and enhanced cyber security.

Choules commanding officer Commander Dave Graham said he was impressed with the improved co-ordination between his departments as a result of the trial, which has also provided the opportunity for crew members to be involved in the development stage.

“Our communication and information systems sailors are ‘doers’; they pro-actively want to learn more to use the systems better and help other crew members come up to speed,” he said.

According to the Australian Navy, Project Jackstay is set to be rolled out in stages over the next two years.