Industry team submits proposal for Australian LHD maintenance

An industry team composed of BAE Systems, Atlantic & Peninsula Australia, Saab Australia and Navantia Australia has submitted a bid to the Australian government to provide sustainment and support for the Canberra-class landing helicopter dock ships (LHD).

Also included in the bid are support for the LHD landing craft (LLC) and associated shore support facilities.

BAE Systems Australia was the prime contractor for the Canberra-class landing helicopter dock (LHD) project and has provided the initial five-year in-service support for the ships.

The company has supported HMA Ships Canberra and Adelaide from their base at the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) Garden Island facility.

In an announcement on Thursday, BAE Systems said Atlantic & Peninsula Australia had delivered exemplary support to HMAS Choules built on inherent platform knowledge, and amphibious ship support experience.

Saab would responsible for the LHD combat system and has proven collaboration within the ANZAC Enterprise.

Navantia is the LHD platform designer and constructed the hulls for the Canberra-class. The Spain-based company is also the platform designer and prime contractor for the twelve LLCs. The LLCs were designed and built to specifically operate with the RAN’s two LHDs.

“BAE Systems is proud to have submitted its response to the Australian Government for the LHD Asset Class Prime Contractor (ACPC) program,” BAE Systems Australia chief executive Gabby Costigan said. “We have a long history of supporting the LHD and maritime sustainment for the RAN that not only includes the LHD but also four other classes of ships.”

“We have partnered with the right companies to ensure we provide the best customer offering. Our commitment to maritime sustainment as well as our role in shipbuilding supports the Government’s plans for a future naval shipbuilding industry that delivers comprehensive Australian industrial capability and supports local jobs and the wider economy.”