The Royal Australian Navy’s Anzac-class frigate, HMAS Anzac, is set to start its harbour acceptance trials phase of its anti-ship missile defence (ASMD) upgrade.
During trials, the frigate’s company and involved contractors will work to incorporate the legacy and latest sensors into its modernised combat system, while refurbishing the ship’s engineering plant.
Royal Australian Navy commanding officer commander Matthew Doornbos said: "She sits fairly high in the water, but once we load all of the equipment and stores back on in the coming weeks and months, she will settle to the usual level.
"Although Anzac has been in ASMD for the past 12 months, we have worked closely with the Anzac Ship Project Office and Frigate Group since May to assist in delivering the package safely and in a timely manner."
As part of the ASMD upgrade, the vessel was integrated with a phased array radar; fire control system; latest combat system. which includes Link 16 tactical data link; in addition to a new navigation radar; and electro-optical surveillance system.
Mainly aimed at significantly boosting the capability of the vessel’s weapons and sensors systems, the upgrade also involved an extensive maintenance package to assure compliance with the tenets of seaworthiness.
RAN is planning to prepare Anzac to set out for participation in the 2015 Anzac Day activities in Anzac Cove.
Image: RAN’s HMAS Anzac being prepared for harbour acceptance trials. Photo: courtesy of Royal Australian Navy.
