Second Air Warfare Destroyer delivered

In a moving ceremony, Navy’s second Air Warfare Destroyer, Brisbane, has officially been handed over to Defence.

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, attended the acceptance ceremony at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide.

Minister Pyne said Brisbane is the second of three ships being delivered by the Air Warfare Destroyer Alliance which comprises the Department of Defence, Raytheon Australia, and ASC Shipbuilding supported by Navantia Australia.

“Today’s milestone is a further demonstration of the success of the Turnbull Government’s Naval Shipbuilding Plan,” said Minister Pyne.

“The AWD Program has met all budget and schedule targets since the implementation of the Government’s reform initiative.”

“Brisbane will enter into service later this year and with her sister-ships, they will be the most potent warships ever operated by the Royal Australia Navy.”‎

“By using a combination of Australian and globally proven technologies, these highly capable warships will contribute directly to our maritime security and allow us to work even closer with our allies.”

Over the past decade more than 5,000 skilled Australians have worked on the three Air Warfare Destroyers.

“This has laid the foundation for an Australian shipbuilding and systems integration industry which will construct the new Hunter class frigates in South Australia.”‎

“The AWD Program has also built a vast Australian supply chain, comprising more than 2,700 suppliers.”

“Over 500 of these are from South Australia, stimulating strong economic growth and job creation.”

The first Air Warfare Destroyer, HMAS Hobart, was accepted and commissioned into service last year.

The third ship, Sydney, was launched at Osborne in May this year and will be delivered to the Navy next year.