News Review: First AWD Aegis system completes testing | ADM Feb 2010

1 February 2010

Lockheed Martin has completed production of the first Aegis Weapon System for the RAN's Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Program.

The test program comprised a full range of acceptance tests conducted over several months to verify system performance.

The ceremonial "un-plugging" milestone at the completion of testing indicates the Aegis system is now ready for installation on HMAS Hobart, the first of Australia's three planned AWDs.

The first AWD-1 system will now be packed and shipped to shipbuilder ASC Shipyard in Adelaide.

HMAS Hobart is expected to be delivered in December 2014.

Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, Greg Combet, used the opportunity to highlight progress in the $8 billion AWD project, with key milestones in the delivery of its combat and weapons control system being met.

"The completion of testing of the Aegis Combat System equipment destined for HMAS Hobart marks a major milestone in the delivery of this world-class capability from the US Navy to the Royal Australian Navy," he said.

"This system is capable of detecting and defeating multiple hostile aircraft and missiles at ranges in excess of 150 kilometres.

"With this system deployed, the AWD will be able to provide protection for a naval task force against air, surface and submarine threats.

"Work on other sub-systems in the AWD combat system is also progressing well with the Air Warfare Destroyer Alliance recently signing a $20 million contract with Boeing for the Advanced Harpoon Weapon Control System."

As a key element of the Hobart Class combat system, the Harpoon missile will allow the three AWDs to engage surface and land targets at ranges well beyond the horizon, Combet said.

The Aegis system enables destroyers to engage simultaneous threats from under the sea, the surface and the air.

The 92 Aegis-equipped ships currently in service around the globe have more than 950 years of at-sea operational experience and have launched more than 3,500 missiles in tests and real-world operations.

In addition to the U.S. and Australia, Aegis is in service with Japan, Norway, South Korea and Spain.