The Albanese Government has unveiled plans for a significantly larger and more potent surface combatant fleet for the Royal Australian Navy.

This ambitious blueprint, surpassing the previous government’s proposals, aims to more than double the size of the surface combatant fleet, in response to the findings of an independent analysis commissioned following the Defence Strategic Review.

Highlighting the imperative of adapting to evolving strategic circumstances, the government emphasised the need for a robust surface combatant fleet to safeguard crucial sea lines of communication and maritime trade routes.

This proposed fleet, the largest since World War II, underscores a pivotal shift in Australia’s maritime defense strategy.

Australia to prioritise long-range strike capability in defence …

Immediate action

The independent analysis underscored the pressing need for immediate action to address the aging surface combatant fleet, stressing enhancements in air defense, long-range strike capabilities, and anti-submarine warfare.

In accordance with these recommendations, the future fleet is slated to comprise:

– 26 major surface combatants, including upgraded Hobart class air warfare destroyers, Hunter class frigates geared towards undersea warfare and strike capabilities, and new general purpose frigates equipped for maritime and land strike, air defense, and escort roles.
– Additionally, the fleet will feature six new Large Optionally Crewed Surface Vessels to significantly bolster long-range strike capabilities.
– To complement these major vessels, the fleet will also include 25 minor war vessels, including six Offshore Patrol Vessels, contributing to civil maritime security operations.

Significantly, the Hunter class frigates will be constructed in South Australia, with subsequent upgrades planned for the Hobart class destroyers.

“There will inevitably be a lot of scepticism about follow-through, unless funding and timescales are made explicit”, @graham_euan tells the @FinancialReview ahead of the release of Australia’s surface fleet review.

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— ASPI (@ASPI_org) February 18, 2024

The accelerated rollout of new general-purpose frigates will obviate the need for Transition Capability Assurance upgrades, ensuring a more streamlined and efficient modernization process.

The consolidation of naval infrastructure at the Henderson precinct, as recommended by the Defence Strategic Review, is currently underway.

Successful completion of this consolidation will not only facilitate the construction of eight new general-purpose frigates but also pave the way for the manufacture of six new Large Optionally Crewed Surface Vessels in Western Australia.