BAE Systems Maritime Australia has contracted Ultra Maritime to deliver the Surface Ship Torpedo Defence (SSTD) system for the Royal Australian Navy’s Hunter-class frigates.
The SSTD provides comprehensive torpedo detection and countermeasure capabilities using a towed acoustic array and automated threat warning algorithms that enhance situational awareness while reducing operator burden.
Under the contract, Ultra Maritime’s Adelaide-based team will oversee production, integration, and sustainment, leveraging the company’s global undersea warfare experience to strengthen Australia’s sovereign defense industry.
This award builds on an earlier selection of Ultra’s 2150 Bow Sonar, which, alongside the SSTD, forms the core of the Hunter-class anti-submarine warfare suite. Both systems are derived from BAE Systems’ Global Combat Ship architecture, ensuring compatibility with similar platforms serving in the UK, Canada, and Norway.
Hunter-Class Frigate Program
The Hunter-class program represents a cornerstone of Australia’s naval modernization plan, encompassing the construction of six advanced frigates at the Osborne Naval Shipyard.
Based on the Type 26 frigate, the design emphasizes ASW capability while supporting air and surface warfare, maritime surveillance, and humanitarian missions.
Each frigate will have a displacement of 8,200 tons, a length of 151 meters (495 feet), and a top speed exceeding 27 knots (50 km/h or 31 mph).
The combat system integrates Aegis technology from the US Navy, paired with an Australian-developed interface by Saab Australia, providing a fully networked defense capability.
Each vessel will accommodate 183 core crew members, with capacity for up to 208 personnel, including embarked air detachments.
The first Hunter-class frigate is expected to enter operational service in the early 2030s.
