Babcock Australasia has been awarded a $30 million lift and hoist systems contract to enhance operational capabilities on board the Royal Australian Navy’s first three Hunter-class frigates.
As disclosed, the three-ship agreement will see Babcock procure, modify, and set to work separate lift and hoist systems as part of its partnership with BAE Systems Maritime Australia.
“The stores lift plays a critical role in the effective movement of general stores, equipment and ammunition between decks inside the frigates, whilst the food hoists transport meals from the ship’s galley to its dining areas,” according to Babcock.
The design of the stores lift will be based on the system developed for the UK’s Type 26 frigates. Built to handle heavy loads, this advanced system will streamline logistics to ensure that essential supplies can be “swifty and safely moved” throughout the vessel.
The modification and maintenance aspects of the contract will involve close collaboration with BAE Systems Maritime Australia and the Commonwealth of Australia.
The contract will be the second key project to be delivered by Babcock on the Hunter-class frigates, after being selected by BAE Systems Maritime Australia to design, assemble, and set to work the fleet’s air weapons handling systems last year.
The handling system is also based on Babcock’s modified design for the Type 26.
Both programs will be managed from Babcock’s new facility at Woodville North in Adelaide, which officially opened in October last year to support the delivery of land and naval programs.
Other nationally significant programs to be run out of the $31 million defense-accredited facility include Collins-class submarine in-service sustainment and future Life of Type Extension, Counter Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (C-CBRNE) asset management and future programs.
“The ability to effectively move stores around a ship is vital for maintaining readiness and effectiveness during missions. Our quality solutions will ensure that the crew can access the resources they need when they need them, enhancing both performance and safety,” Babcock Australasia CEO Andrew Cridland said.
“As a leader in maritime engineering and maintenance solutions, we are proud to partner with BAE Systems to deliver this key function on the Royal Australian Navy’s Hunter class frigates. This contract underscores Babcock’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and safety in naval operations.”
In related news, American technology company L3Harris Technologies recently received a contract to provide its integrated platform management system (IPMS) for Hunter-class frigates.