Ultra Maritime has secured a contract to supply torpedo defense technologies for Australia’s new Hunter-class frigates.
Awarded by BAE Systems Maritime Australia, the contract includes the Surface Ship Torpedo Defence (SSTD) system.
The SSTD is designed to detect and counter incoming torpedoes through a single in-line towed array and an automatic threat-alert function that minimizes false alarms and reduces operator workload.
Ultra Maritime will support the program from its Adelaide facility in South Australia, combining local manufacturing with its undersea warfare experience to enhance Canberra’s maritime defense capability.
Earlier this year, Ultra Maritime’s hull-mounted 2150 Bow Sonar was also selected for the Hunter-class design.
Both systems are part of the frigate’s anti-submarine warfare suite, based on BAE Systems’ Global Combat Ship design.
The same architecture is used in programs for the UK, Canada, and Norway, providing a common baseline for allied surface combatants.
Hunter-Class Fleet
The Hunter-class project aims to modernize Australia’s maritime capabilities with a new generation of multi-role warships.
It includes six frigates being built at the Osborne Naval Shipyard by BAE Systems Maritime Australia.
Based on the UK’s Type 26 design, the vessels are optimized for anti-submarine warfare but will also cover air defense, surface warfare, surveillance, and humanitarian missions.
Each ship weighs about 8,200 tons when fully equipped and ready for operation, measures 151 meters (495 feet) in length, and can reach speeds of over 27 knots (50 kilometers/31 miles per hour).
The combat system combines the US Navy’s Aegis system with an Australian interface developed by Saab Australia.
Each frigate will carry a crew of 183, including the helicopter team, with space and facilities to accommodate up to 208 personnel in total.
Service entry is scheduled for the early 2030s.
