The Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) program reached a significant milestone in Adelaide today as the second of three destroyers was formally named and launched into Australian waters for the first time.
Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, and Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, applauded the hard work and dedication of thousands of workers across Australia.
Minister Tehan represented the Government as the Brisbane was officially named and launched.
“I have been on-board the first destroyer, Hobart, and it is quite apparent these completed ships will become a valuable asset to the Royal Australian Navy,” Minister Tehan said.
“Australia is undertaking an unprecedented upgrade of its naval capabilities, and the additional of the Brisbane to our fleet will help ensure our ongoing national security.”
Minister Pyne said many companies came together to get the second AWD in the water.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the shipbuilder ASC, mission systems integrator Raytheon Australia, ship build manager Navantia and the Government’s representative, Defence, on this momentous occasion.
“The construction and integration work occurring here in Adelaide on the AWD program is a vital part of South Australia’s shipbuilding industry.”
Minister Payne said the Brisbane’s launch is a significant step towards the delivery of three world-leading warships to the Royal Australian Navy.
“The Air Warfare Destroyers will be one of the world’s most capable multi-purpose warships that will provide the Royal Australian Navy with air defence for accompanying ships, land forces and infrastructure in coastal areas,” Minister Payne said.
“The Brisbane will have cutting edge layered defensive and offensive resources capable of operating across of maritime operations, from providing entire task groups with air defence and escort duties, right through to law enforcement and rescue operations.”
Over the coming months, outfitting of Brisbane will continue, as will the loading of combat system equipment.
Ship 01, Hobart, will sail into waters off the coast of South Australia on sea trials early next year to undertake testing of combat and communications systems and further platform system testing.
The third destroyer will now move forward into its final position in the shipyard where it will finish being consolidated into a full ship.
(Aus DoD)