BAE Systems signs Hunter Class Frigate AWA with Australian Government
BAE Systems Australia announced yesterday that it has signed an Advanced Work Arrangement (AWA) with the Australian Government for the Hunter Class Frigate Programme.
Above:
BAE Systems' Type 26 Global Combat Ship to be designated as the Hunter Class.
The Australian Government announced in June that BAE Systems was selected as the preferred tenderer for the Hunter Class Frigate Programme to deliver nine Future Frigates for the Royal Australian Navy.
The AWA signed yesterday will allow BAE Systems to continue to mobilise the programme including maturing design and engineering plans, establishing a skilled workforce and setting up the required infrastructure necessary to commence prototyping in 2020.
BAE Systems’ Managing Director for the Hunter Class Frigate Programme, Nigel Stewart said: “This is a very important and early milestone in the development of an enduring world-class naval shipbuilding industry in Australia. The AWA demonstrates a commitment by both BAE Systems and the Australian Government to ensure timely progress on this critical defence programme.”
BAE Systems continues to progress negotiations with the Australian Government for the Head Contract for the Hunter Class Frigate Program and the acquisition of ASC Shipbuilding.