Keeping capability alive and ships at sea.

Keeping naval operations in focus, capability alive and ships ready to fight and win at sea through innovative and intelligent sovereign sustainment solutions.

Your Partner at Sea navantia.com.au Editor’s Letter EDITOR’S LETTER It is often said that history doesn’t repeat, but it does rhyme. As we look at the 2020s and compare them to the global malaise experienced 100 years ago, this could not be more accurate

AS THE world continues to grapple with the geo- Sandy details the introduction of Aegis and the lessons political, economic and strategic impact of COVID-19 and learned from the US Navy and other Aegis partners, as rising great power tensions, one can’t help but see the the Navy expands its fleet of Aegis capable warships and echoes of history. All of this change has occurred in a the plans for collaboration with industry to develop an relatively short period of time. For Defence Connect, this Aegis centre of excellence. changing global environment has prompted us to step up We will also speak to Coras Solutions to discuss the our offering to you. company’s evolution as a specialised consulting company Building on the success of the Defence Connect daily and the support it provides Defence as it undergoes the market intelligence and defence industry news bulletin, largest peacetime modernisation program. Defence Connect has expanded its daily offering to include Navantia Australia will outline its transition from the detailed policy, capability and doctrine analysis of the ‘build’ phase to the ‘support’ phase and its plans to issues affecting Australia’s defence and national security. continue supporting the modernisation and capability This has seen the addition of the Insight podcast, enhancements of the Hobart and Canberra Class vessels. which enables us to have free flowing, deep-dive Rhode & Schwarz discusses its shift from supporting conversations with uniformed leaders, politicians and the Navy over the past 40 years to being recognised academics to discuss in detail the issues and challenges as a prime input to Navy’s capability for key programs, facing Australia. including the Cape Class patrol boats and the future As part of this enhanced offering, Defence Connect is Hunter Class frigates. pleased to launch its own quarterly special editions, with iXblue discusses the role it plays in supporting this, the Maritime & Undersea Warfare supplement, the Navy’s hydrographic survey capabilities and the role first issue. The focus of this edition will be the maritime autonomous systems and leading-edge technology domain, deep-diving into the programs, platforms, plays in supporting the safe navigation of the maritime capabilities and announcements that will shape Navy commons and continued security in the nation’s EEZ. over the coming decade. Finally, HENSOLDT Asia Pacific discusses its To begin with, we will take a deep-dive into the transition from supporting the Air Force and the skills, government’s recently announced $270 billion investment expertise and capabilities it brings to Navy across into the nation’s defence capability as part of the 2020 the fleet, ranging from optronics masts for the Collins Defence Strategic Update and the 2020 Force Structure Class through to soft-kill counter-UAS capabilities for Plan, which outlines the planned expansion of Navy into deployed surface warships. the 2030s. As always, feedback is both appreciated and Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm will also provide a closer encouraged, so please get in touch with us should you look at Plan Galileo, the Navy’s plan to partner with have any ideas to put forward. Thanks again for your industry to keep the fleet ready to fight and win at sea. continued support as we all work together to make This issue of Defence Connect will also take a closer Australia a safer, more secure and prosperous country. look at the evolution of the unmanned and autonomous mine counter measure capabilities currently on offer from Northrop Grumman for the Royal Australian Navy. Defence Connect’s two newest members, Hannah Dowling and Sandy Milne, will be providing a closer look at the Navy’s Fleet Air Arm and its evolution from fixed- Steve Kuper wing to one of the most capable rotary wing forces in Analyst and editor the world. Defence Connect

www.defenceconnect.com.au 01 Maritime Special Edition Contents

IN THIS ISSUE: EDITORIAL Analyst and editor: Steve Kuper Journalsts: Hannah Dowling Sandy Milne Production manager: Lyndsey Fall MARITIME Senior production editor: AND UNDERSEA WARFARE Keith Ford

SALES P.03 Defence Strategic Update Senior media strategist: Joe Vince P.12 The cutting-edge optronic Media strategist: mast system Andy Scott P.14 Plan Galileo P.18 Disruption isn’t a CREATIVE challenge, it’s an Senior designers: opportunity Daniel Berrell Allisha Middleton-Sim P.20 Future proof Jack Townsend communications Designer: Sheriel Paez P.23 The evolution of the Fleet Air Arm Broadcast media manager: Todd Stevens P.30 Sustaining the Canberra Class LHD capability OFFICE P.32 Powering greater Accounts: autonomy Chris Brace Media coordinator: P.34 Aegis and SEA 5000 Anthony Lee P.40 Navy and Australia’s Marketing coordinator: 03 maritime economy Demii Kalavritinos Head of event production: P.44 Support Defence Jennifer Hardy capability at home and Deputy head of content: abroad Emma Ryan P.48 Navy autonomous Director, commercial growth: systems Russell Stephenson Director: P.51 Leveraging international Alex Whitlock maritime support

P.56 Building on four decades of delivering for Navy P.60 Navy’s evolving mission 14 and capabilities ENQUIRIES Advertising enquiries andrew.scott@ momentummedia.com.au joe.vince@ momentummedia.com.au

Editorial enquiries [email protected]

CONTACT Level 13, 132 Arthur Street, North Sydney, NSW, 2060 23 34 Phone: 02 9922 3300

Maritime Special Edition 02 www.defenceconnect.com.au Defence Strategy

PREPARING NAVY FOR THE CONTESTED ENVIRONMENT OF THE FUTURE The government has released the long-awaited Defence Strategy Update and Force Structure Plan, which earmarks $270 billion over the next decade, with Navy set to be a major beneficiary

BY STEPHEN KUPER

rom the frigid waters of the Southern Power projection, backed by a potent fleet Ocean to the comparatively temperate, of modern surface vessels and submarines, F shallow and congested waterways of including aircraft carriers, destroyers and south-east Asia’s strategically vital sea lines frigates enabled Australian policy makers of communication, Australia’s maritime to intervene directly in regional security sphere of influence and responsibility is matters in order to prevent any major threat among the largest in the world. to the Australian mainland. Prior to Federation, much of Australia’s However, the concept of ‘Forward Defence’ maritime security and trade was guaranteed and the ‘domino theory’ would prove to by the might of the Royal Navy, however be mildly successful during the Malaya the creation of the Royal Australian Navy crisis and Korean conflicts, but ultimately, off the back of the Australian Squadron politically unpalatable in the aftermath of in 1913 marked a major step-change in the disastrous Vietnam War. the young nation’s relationship with its The 1986 Dibb review and supporting maritime surrounds. 1987 Defence White Paper established and While the First World War saw limited solidified the Defence of Australia doctrine, action for the then infant Royal Australian which saw the nation’s maritime capabilities Navy, the Second World War and its truly shift away from power projection, global battlefield forced the RAN to radically towards control over the critical maritime shift its approach and capabilities as, for the approaches to the Australian landmass and first time, Australia was under direct threat the sea lines of communication the economy of attack and potential invasion. depends upon. The aftermath of the Pacific campaign Author of the 1986 Dibb review, Professor and the Cold War in many ways paved the Paul Dibb, explains the shift in doctrine way for Australia’s contemporary maritime from ‘Forward Defence’ and supporting strategy off the back of the nation’s major others’ security to enhance our own, to engagements during the Indonesian the comparatively isolationist ‘Defence of Konfrontasi, Korean and Vietnam conflicts. Australia’ doctrine:

www.defenceconnect.com.au 03 Maritime Special Edition Defence Strategy

HMAS Adelaide conducts First of Class Flight Trials for the MH-60 Romeo helicopter off the coast of Queensland Source: Department of Defence

Maritime Special Edition 04 www.defenceconnect.com.au “Until the late 1960s, Australian defence single maritime capability modernisation planning and policy assumed that our forces and recapitalisation since the Second World would normally operate in conjunction with War, supported by the $95 billion Naval allies, and well forward of the continent. We Shipbuilding Plan. saw our security inextricably linked with the The 2016 Defence White Paper was driven security of others.” by the rapidly deteriorating geo-political, While this shift can be argued by some as economic and strategic environment of the essential as the strategic realities of the Indo- Indo-Pacific, characterised by six key drivers Pacific evolved after Vietnam and through the responsible for shaping Australia’s security later stages of the Cold War, it delivered some environment to 2035, namely: of the highly capable platforms that form the The roles of the US and China and the backbone of the fleet today. relationship between them, which is likely Platforms like the Anzac Class frigates and to be characterised by a mix of co-operation the Collins Class submarines emerged as and competition; highly effective and powerful capabilities for Challenges to the stability of the rules- enforcing Australia’s maritime doctrine and based global order, including competition control over the seas. between countries and major powers trying However, as the Cold War ended, Australia’s to promote their interests outside of the focus shifted yet again, humanitarian established rules; interventions, stabilisation efforts, disaster relief and joint task group operations emerged The enduring threat of terrorism, including as the priorities for the Navy and broader ADF threats emanating from ungoverned parts of directly influencing the fleet composition. Africa, the Middle East and Asia; Interventions in both East Timor in 1998 State fragility, including within our and then subsequent interventions across immediate neighbourhood, caused by the Indo-Pacific demonstrated that the uneven economic growth, crime, social, ‘isolationist’ doctrine established under the environmental and governance challenges, Defence of Australia could not provide the and climate change; Navy with the capabilities it needed to support The pace of military modernisation and regional security and stability. the development of more capable regional The revelations that Australia lacked a military forces, including more capable significant amphibious and power projection ballistic missile forces; and capability also revealed a startling lack of The emergence of new complex, non- credible fleet area-air defence. Both revelations geographic threats, including cyber gave birth to the Canberra and Hobart Class threats to the security of information and programs, which in turn triggered the Navy’s communications systems. rebirth in the 21st century. As the region and global balance of power continue to undergo As an island nation, the RAN was a major a major strategic reorientation, the Australian beneficiary of the 2016 Defence White government has responded to ensure that the Paper, which identified a suite of major RAN remains at the forefront of capability recapitalisation programs to support a greater and is capable of meeting the missions of a focus on maritime security and Australia’s contested 21st century. place in the Indo-Pacific.

Towards the future – shape, deter, respond These include the: The 2016 Defence White Paper built upon the $1-2 billion Supply Class replenishment policy, force structure and capability models oiler program; first established in the original 1986 Defence $3.6 billion Arafura Class offshore patrol Review, focusing upon providing niche vessel program; maritime capabilities and securing Australia’s maritime approaches. $35 billion Hunter Class future frigate As part of the government’s announcement program; and of the 2016 Defence White Paper, the $50-80 billion Attack Class future government embarked upon Australia’s largest submarine program.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 05 Maritime Special Edition Defence Strategy

To this end, the 2016 Defence White Paper “Both demand a much more robust and identified that 25 per cent of the funding forward orientated defence posture. allocated as part of the ‘10-year division “The notion that we will have 10 years of investment’ to FY2025-26 would be warning time of major power threats is focused upon expanding and enhancing also now recognised as outmoded in what the RAN’s maritime and anti-submarine is emerging as a possible ‘pre-war’ period warfare capabilities. akin in some respects to that which existed The core premise of this was Australia’s in the 1930s.” role supporting coalition operations as part Building on this recognition, Prime of a “stable Indo-Pacific region and a rules- Minister Scott Morrison set the scene for based global order” – critical components the 2020 Defence Strategic Update and of the post-Second World War economic, Force Structure Plan 2020, stating: political and strategic order. “Our region is in the midst of the most As part of this, the 2016 Defence White consequential strategic realignment since Paper established a set of ‘strategic defence the Second World War, and trends including objectives’, which would come to directly military modernisation, technological influence the government’s 2020 Defence disruption and the risk of state-on-state Strategic Update and Force Structure Plan conflict are further complicating our 2020, namely: nation’s strategic circumstances. Deter, deny and defeat attacks on or “The Indo-Pacific is at the centre of threats to Australia and its national greater strategic competition, making the interests, and northern approaches; region more contested and apprehensive. These trends are continuing and will Make effective military contributions to potentially sharpen as a result of the support the security of maritime south- coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.” east Asia and support the governments Recognising this, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and expanded upon the ‘strategic defence of Pacific island countries to build and objectives’ originally outlined in the 2016 strengthen their security; and Defence White Paper to reorientate the Contribute military capabilities to coalition focus of the ADF on the following: operations that support Australia’s To shape Australia’s strategic interests in a rules-based global order. environment; To deter actions against Australia’s Fast forward four years and the Indo- interests; and Pacific has radically evolved from what To respond with credible military force, was identified in the 2016 Defence White when required. Paper, with the global and regional security environment under mounting pressure from As a maritime nation, the RAN will increased US-China tensions, COVID-19 and serve as a critical component in helping myriad other challenges. the government implement and sustain Malcolm Davis, senior analyst at the these core ‘strategic defence objectives’ as Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Australia confronts a contested region and explains to Defence Connect, “The release continues to balance initiatives like the of the 2020 Defence Strategic Update and ‘Pacific Step-up’. its accompanying Force Structure Plan on Dr Davis adds, “Although government July 1st does mark a positive step forward refused to explicitly name the key concern for ADF military capability and signifies a driving this update, that concern has to be determined Australian response to a rapidly a rising Chinese state that is determined to deteriorating strategic outlook. overturn US strategic primacy and impose “There’s a recognition that Australia its own regional order led by the regime will need to step up and burden share to in Beijing. But added to this concern is the a greater degree, with the US and other uncertainty about the US’ will and ability regional partners, to counterbalance to sustain critical security commitments to China’s ambitions. the region.”

Maritime Special Edition 06 www.defenceconnect.com.au 725SQN member, Seaman Aviation Support Christopher Hopwood, washing down an MH-60 Romeo helicopter at HMAS Albatross, Nowra Source: Department of Defence

An eye on the future – Expanding In order to support this investment program, Navy’s capability government has reaffirmed its commitment Building on the success of the Naval to some of the largest, most complex and Shipbuilding Plan and the various acquisition publicly visible acquisition programs currently programs announced as part of the 2016 under way, including: Defence White Paper, the 2020 Defence Two Supply Class replenishment ships Strategic Update and Force Structure Plan 2020 will place increasing emphasis on the Six evolved Cape Class patrol boats; capabilities of the fleet in the coming decade. Nine Hunter Class anti-submarine The Force Structure Plan 2020 and 2020 warfare frigates; Defence Strategic Update state: 12 Attack Class future submarines; and “The 2016 Defence White Paper laid the 12 Arafura Class offshore patrol vessels. framework for the largest expansion of the Royal Australian Navy since the Second World Further to these commitments, the War. The 2020 Force Structure Plan sets government has reaffirmed its commitments out a total planned capability investment of to a range of sustainment and through-life approximately $75 billion over the next decade in enhancing Australia’s maritime capabilities. upgrades across a range of existing naval “This expanded maritime force will provide platforms, including: greater capability for anti-submarine warfare, Sustainment and upgrades to the three sealift, border security operations, maritime Hobart Class destroyers to maintain these as patrol and reconnaissance, air warfare, area leading-edge air warfare platforms to protect denial, sea control and undersea warfare.” deployed naval forces;

www.defenceconnect.com.au 07 Maritime Special Edition Defence Strategy

An 816 Squadron maintenance sailor prepares to remove the tow bar from an MH-60 Romeo helicopter in the early morning light on the flight line at HMAS Albatross, Nowra Source: Department of Defence

Acquisition and through-life upgrades of the Participate in the development of directed MH-60R anti-submarine helicopter fleet; energy weapons for the close-range Sustainment and upgrades to the defence of naval vessels against advanced eight Anzac Class frigates to maintain and emerging weapon systems; the Navy’s strategic edge in surface Expanded acquisition of maritime tactical combatant capability; remotely piloted aerial systems to enhance Continued upgrades to the submarine situational awareness across Australia’s combat system and heavyweight torpedo; vast maritime operating environment; Sustainment, capability enhancements, and The acquisition of a support and salvage life of type extensions to the Collins Class vessel to enable the recovery and at-sea submarines, which are halfway through repair of large warships; their life, to maintain a capability advantage Upgrade maritime tactical remotely until the transition to the Attack Class; and piloted aerial systems to ensure they are Sustainment and capability enhancements equipped with the latest intelligence, to the two Canberra Class and HMAS surveillance and reconnaissance Choules amphibious vessels. capabilities to support the fleet; Support for the HydroScheme Industry As government’s expectations of Navy and Partnership Program to boost Australia’s the broader joint ADF continue to evolve, commercial hydrographic industry; particularly as the Indo-Pacific continues to Enhancements to mine countermeasures become more contested, the Force Structure Plan 2020 and 2020 Defence Strategic Update and hydrographic capabilities through identify a number of future capabilities and the acquisition of up to eight additional platforms for future development. vessels, built in Australia – potentially These future platforms include a range based on the Arafura Class OPV; and of traditional crewed vessels as well as Design, development and acquisition of autonomous platforms to serve as critical two Australian-built multi-role sea lift force multipliers across the Navy and Fleet Air and replenishment vessels to replace Arm, including: HMAS Choules.

Maritime Special Edition 08 www.defenceconnect.com.au Addressing Australia’s long-range strike gap Acquire advanced anti-submarine torpedos Supporting this fundamental and for air and surface assets, to build transformational investment into the Navy collaborative anti-submarine capability is addressing the long-term, long-range among Australia’s partners. strike gap that has hindered the strategic and tactical deterrence capability of the ADF since Dr Davis explains the growing importance the retirement of the F-111. of long-range strike capabilities for the Navy As part of this, government has prioritised as part of the ‘joint force’, saying, “With the development and introduction of a this in mind, the ADF needs to deter and credible maritime-based long-range strike strike at an adversary at long range from capability as part of enhancing Navy’s role Australia’s territory. What made headlines within enforcing an Australian “area-denial” was the confirmation of earlier news that capability in a contested environment. Australia would acquire the AGM-158C Long Dr Davis adds, “In this sense, the Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) system, to inclusion of enhancements to undersea be carried on the F/A-18F Super Hornet, and warfare capability, including investment eventually on other platforms. LRASM will be in developing an integrated undersea a huge step forward from the now outdated surveillance system (IUSS), and large Harpoon antiship missile. unmanned underwater vehicles (XLUUVs) “In terms of sheer range, as it’s based on and large unmanned surface vessels (USVs), JASSM-ER, it can strike at enemy ships out to is perhaps the hidden gem in paper. 900 kilometres (500 nautical miles), compared “A more sophisticated perspective on to 120 kilometres for Harpoon. But it’s also far undersea warfare marks a recognition that smarter than Harpoon, to the point of being adversary A2AD capabilities are going to a true autonomous weapon system. It would make it more difficult for surface naval be hoped that these could eventually find forces to survive deep inside contested their way onto RAN naval surface combatants, environments. Perhaps it’s better to exploit replacing the obsolete Harpoon on the Hobart the undersea battlespace more fully to project Class AWDs and being integrated into the power at long range. Hunter Class future frigates. “It also marks an unstated reality that “The Strategic Update and Force Structure the acquisition of the Attack Class future Plan also alluded to supporting research and submarines is occurring too slowly to development towards acquisition of hypersonic meet the rapidly changing strategic and weapons, for all three branches of the ADF. operational environment, and additional “Having long-range strike for Navy is capability is needed sooner than when HMAS really important, and even though the 900 Attack enters service, perhaps in 2034.” kilometres LRASM is a big step on from In addition to the long-range strike Harpoon, it still requires Navy to close deep component, the government has identified inside China’s anti-access and area denial a need for advanced long-range surface-to- (A2AD) envelope, which now stretches 5,000 air weapons systems, and advanced torpedo kilometres from the coast of China out to the and torpedo self-defence capabilities, second island chain, including Guam.” each of which will provide the Navy with a Each of these capabilities provide an technological edge. important component of the government’s broader strategic plan, which focuses on These capability priorities include: developing a broader Australian strategic The acquisition of maritime strike and deterrence and ‘area denial’ umbrella backed advanced surface-to-air weapon systems by the potential introduction of land-based, to give the ADF more options to project long-range hypersonic missiles. force and protect itself in an environment Enhancing the lethality of the maritime where more countries have increasingly long-range strike capabilities requires reliable, advanced systems; hardened communications and decision- Provision of a torpedo self-defence suite making capacity to ensure that Australia’s to the surface fleet to counter advances in decision makers are capable of surviving in a torpedo systems in our region; and contested and congested environment.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 09 Maritime Special Edition Defence Strategy

725 Squadron’s MH-60 Romeo helicopter conducts an anti-submarine exercise with HMAS Rankin in the Eastern Australian Exercise Area Source: Department of Defence

Accordingly, government envisions that Meanwhile, the Indian Ocean and its these capabilities and the broader ‘joint critical global sea lines of communication force’ ADF will be ‘knitted together’ through are responsible for more than 80 per cent of complex and integrated, cyber-hardened, the world’s seaborne trade in critical energy command and control capabilities that support supplies, namely oil and natural gas, which “high-quality situational awareness and serve as the lifeblood of any advanced economy. improved identification of threats”. Dr Davis adds, “This story is just in its The introduction of these capabilities will opening chapter, and future capability also be supported by a critical investment in acquisitions may need to be considered beyond “enhanced secure satellite communications, what is suggested in the 2020 Force Structure advanced tactical networks, mission data Plan. All of these must be focused on building support for surface combatants, and new up Australia’s ability to be prepared for a rapid acoustic analysis capabilities”. deterioration in our strategic circumstances “It’s likely that the force structure suggested and growing risks through the next decade.” The government’s new Force Structure in 2020 will be the starting point – not Plan 2020 and 2020 Defence Strategic Update the end – of the process of preparing for recognise the importance of Australia’s major power interstate warfare. It has to be dependence upon the ocean and equal parts acquired rapidly, and other key capability the benevolence of the surrounding Indo- areas need to be addressed, including building Pacific nations and Australia’s independent resilient space-based C4ISR, and boosting our capacity to protect its interests. Never before mobilisation prior to, and combat sustainment have the words of American naval strategist during, wartime,” Dr Davis adds. Alfred Thayer Mahan, penned in his work The Influence of Sea Power upon History, echoed Conclusions truer when applied to Australia’s maritime As a maritime nation, Australia is defined strategy and naval recapitalisation for the 21st by its relationship and access to the ocean, century: “Whether they will or not, Americans with strategic sea lines of communication must now begin to look outward. The growing supporting over 90 per cent of global trade, a production of the country demands it.” result of the cost effective and reliable nature Accordingly, the government’s $270 billion of sea transport. plan and the $75 billion worth of extra Indo-Pacific Asia is at the epicentre of the funding allocated to the RAN seeks to global maritime trade, with about US$5 trillion maximise the capacity of the Navy, both the worth of trade flowing through the South surface and submarine fleets, and its emerging China Sea and the strategic waterways and capabilities to actively defend the nation’s choke points of south-east Asia annually. interests, but is it enough?

Maritime Special Edition 10 www.defenceconnect.com.au Detect and Protect In today´s complex world, HENSOLDT´s integrated solutions make a difference.

HENSOLDT has over 100 years of experience as a high-quality solutions provider for the defence and security sector. We produce market-leading technologies across established and emerging domains, keeping frontline forces safe. HENSOLDT´s integrated solutions combine technologies to meet even the most stringent demands.

www.hensoldt.net Profile

THE CUTTING-EDGE OPTRONIC MAST SYSTEM – HENSOLDT’S OPTRONIC MAST SYSTEM 150 – With more than 100 years of experience in optical sensors for maritime applications, HENSOLDT is the global market leader of submarine periscopes and optronic mast system. Listening attentively to navies around the world has led us to a profound understanding of their operational demands and requirements. Our cutting-edge technologies do not only respond to these requirements but go above and beyond by introducing new capabilities, making room for tactical innovation

OMS 150 is the latest enhanced new sensor system in the proven design of the OMS 100 family. It integrates the latest in camera development to include short-wave infrared (SWIR) capability. By Nathan Manzi The OMS 150 comprises of a unique Head of Asia Pacific, combination of high-definition (HDTV), Hendsoldt low light level TV (LLLTV) and SWIR sensors, aligned in a single objective lens design, all on the same line of sight, realising a true all-light, all-weather visual capability. ENSOLDT facilitates maintenance and repairs, optimising logistics To minimise the exposure time of the and subsequently lowering life- mast, a Quick Look Round (QLR) of 360° H can be conducted in less than three seconds cycle costs of the systems. Besides, HENSOLDT is also able to provide in- and a full panoramic view can be displayed country workshops up to level 4. in less than 10 seconds, contributing to Our submarine optronic solutions are the situational awareness of the surface providing high resolution all-light, all- operational environment. weather visual capabilities. The systems Real-time image enhancement and can be completely integrated into the an intuitive HMI environment with combat management system (CMS) or integrated automated functions contribute operate as a stand-alone solution in new- to an unprecedented level of situational built or retrofit submarines. awareness while at periscope depth.

Maritime Special Edition 12 www.defenceconnect.com.au Key features Recorded images and videos also include OMS 150 key features: mission relevant meta data, such as 4K colour TV camera navigational details and time of recording. HD LLLTV, HD MWIR and SWIR Eye-safe laser rangefinder About HENSOLDT Full combat system integration HENSOLDT is a pioneer of technology Real-time image enhancement and innovation in the field of defence and Dual axis LOS stabilisation security electronics. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company is a German 3rd axis image processing Champion with strategic leadership positions Antenna interface for electronics in the field of sensor solutions for defence EW antenna and GPSITAR-free and non-defence applications. HENSOLDT develops new products to combat The latest sensor technology of the OMS a wide range of threats based on innovative 150 is complemented by an enhanced digital approaches to data management, robotics fibre optic data transfer capability and and cyber security. With currently more image processing technology, allowing the than 5,000 employees, HENSOLDT generated display of images from up to three cameras revenues of over €1 billion in 2018. simultaneously. The user-friendly intuitive HMI enables more automated operations of For more infomation go to: www.hensoldt.net the optronics mast system. The combination of sensor data by overlaying images significantly improves situational awareness. Brought to you by Real-time image enhancement includes turbulence correction and navigation light detection as well as overlaying image data (alpha-blending) and image fusion.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 13 Maritime Special Edition Plan Galileo

Photographer: CPOIS Cameron Martin Source: images.navy.gov.au | S20191993

Maritime Special Edition 14 www.defenceconnect.com.au BY REAR ADMIRAL WENDY MALCOLM, CSM - ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY RESHAPING NAVY’S SUSTAINMENT AND SUPPORT In what seemed like just a few short weeks, our world has been turned upside down by the spread of COVID-19. Every sector of society has been affected in some way. Yet, while the virus cuts a swathe through the economy, we are witnessing a national effort akin to that during World War II

ur governments are working together That means the Australian Defence Force will to see the country through this crisis, need to continue doing the job it is currently O with every Australian called on to do doing. We will need to ensure our ability their bit, even if that simply means skipping to patrol the Indo-Pacific region continues the beach and staying in to watch TV. uninterrupted. We will need to continue For others, it means ensuring the industries stepping up in the Pacific. Our allies will and businesses that provide a livelihood for still need us to stand by our commitments to Australians and help to defend our national them. Our naval capability to do this is being interests are able to make it through to the reinforced by the government’s multibillion- other side. dollar continuous Naval Shipbuilding Plan. Federal and state governments are This will give us a shipbuilding capability we contributing, pumping billions of dollars into have not seen since World War II by increasing the economy to keep businesses alive. For the size and complexity of our fleet by up to Navy, that means ensuring we can provide 50 per cent over the next two decades. certainty and work for industry; we will need In order to ensure that Australia’s naval them to continue doing what they do — capability is working as well as it possibly helping our Navy to fight and win at sea. can, and is able to be deployed when and While our current enemy may be a virus, where it is needed, we have rethought our other challenges in our region remain and are approach to sustaining our naval vessels. not going to disappear as a result of COVID-19. This is Plan Galileo.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 15 Maritime Special Edition Plan Galileo

Aerial photograph of HMAS Anzac berthed alongside HMAS Arunta at Fleet Base West in Western Australia Photographer: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko Source: images.navy.gov.au | S20201894

“PLAN GALILEO IS A LONG-TERM COMMITMENT TO OUR NAVAL SUSTAINMENT THAT MATCHES OUR COMMITMENT TO SHIPBUILDING”

At its heart, Plan Galileo is matching our Of course, all of this requires early and continuous naval shipbuilding capability regular engagement with industry in order with a continuous sustainment capability. to communicate our needs, and for us to It rethinks sustainment by considering it as understand their capabilities and expectations. part of a vessel’s design process. What that Obviously, face-to-face engagement has been means on a practical level is that defence postponed for now, but that does not mean industry contractors will know what Navy’s our need to engage with industry has ended. sustainment needs are before a keel is laid. In fact, we need it now more than ever. The That gives them certainty in their current environment is providing a useful investments and skilling. It also allows us to stress test of our engagement methods and line up work from further out. forcing us to innovate when it comes to In many ways, Plan Galileo is more relevant communicating with our industry partners. now than in the world that existed prior to Lessons learned from this will hold us in COVID-19. It provides a scalable set of work good stead when we face other, non-viral packages for industry delivered over a long- disruptions. For example, the Regional time frame. It also helps our regions, since Maintenance Centres in Cairns and Perth a core component of the concept is what we will need to be in place by 2022 in order to have called Regional Maintenance Centres. support the first OPV. In order to meet this These are self-contained sustainment tight deadline, we are pushing ahead with the centres at strategic ports comprising Defence, scheduled program of works. primes and SMEs that will be able to sustain Plan Galileo is a long-term commitment any vessel and then return it to sea. These to our naval sustainment that matches our centres are currently planned for Cairns, commitment to shipbuilding. It will provide Perth, Darwin and Sydney. certainty and longevity in our regions and While Plan Galileo is a long-term project better embed Navy as a good corporate out to 2025, we are already implementing citizen, while ensuring our Navy can do the a number of its elements as a “proof of job it is called on it to do. concept” within our Arafura Class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) program. Defence will test Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm, CSM, is currently ideas, learn from our mistakes — and our serving as Head Maritime Systems, Capability successes — and work these into the overall Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Department plan as it is rolled out on a national scale. of Defence.

Maritime Special Edition 16 www.defenceconnect.com.au Join us and Join us and unlockunlock youryour potentialpotential

explore the possibilities in ACT, NSW & SA at explore [email protected] possibilities in ACT, NSW & SA at [email protected]

Engineering & Asset Management | Program & Project Management CommercialEngineering Advisory & Asset Management| Governance &| AssuranceProgram & |Project Business Management Advisory Commercial Advisory | Governance & Assurance | Business Advisory Profile

AT CORAS, DISRUPTION ISN’T A CHALLENGE, IT’S AN OPPORTUNITY Uncertainty. Unprecedented. Uncharted. For many, these concepts are the lens through which 2020 and beyond is being viewed. But where some see challenges in the unknown, we see opportunities. Opportunities to reframe, to adapt, and to deliver results beyond expectations. Opportunities to invest in our staff and in our culture. Opportunities to position ourselves and our clients to meet the needs of tomorrow

t Coras, we deliver forward-thinking Not only was Coras a Finalist in the consulting, tailored to our clients. Professional Services category of the 2019 A What are your needs? What are Australian Small Business Champion your drivers? What are your barriers to Awards, but our managing director Phil implementing effective solutions? We Cutts was a Finalist in the 2019 Defence take time to listen, to understand, and to Connect Australian Defence Industry Awards empower transformation, together. for Consultant of the Year — Phil shares his With our growing portfolio in support of insights on navigating the current climate Defence, government agencies and industry, on page 44. we are experienced in asset management, While others have scaled back in recent governance and assurance, commercial months, we’re growing the team. From our advisory, and program management. beginnings in Sydney, our Canberra team Founded in 2015 and bolstered with our has now secured a new permanent office team of industry veterans, we’ve provided in Braddon with fit-out to commence in support to Border Force, CASG, Fleet July. We’re also expanding our presence in Command, Army Headquarters, and the South Australia and are excited to build on Bureau of Meteorology. We are experienced our Sydney and Canberra success with our across the whole Defence capability life partners in Adelaide. cycle (CLC), enabling us to adapt our At Coras, our people are the foundation offerings to your needs. of everything we do. We are grateful to At Coras, your success is our success — our entire team for adapting to recent and we’re proud of our achievements and disruptions. With their resilience and agile sustained growth to date. solutions, it’s been business as usual for our

Maritime Special Edition 18 www.defenceconnect.com.au clients (albeit from home and in the comfort environment we operate in — we all of our track pants). From DIY hot cross are. Yet our team views these changes as bun care packages delivered to the team for opportunities to provide innovative client Easter, to our interactive Coras quiz night solutions to make a transformative impact in (where staff and their families dressed up Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide, and beyond. and dialled into Microsoft Teams), to our At Coras, you’re not just a client, remote Physical Fitness Challenge, the Coras you’re part of our team. How can we unlock culture is stronger than ever. your potential? The Coras team has shown, beyond a doubt, that for all the tech, office perks and automation, it’s our people who are the drivers of our success. It’s our people who Brought to you by empower our clients through challenging norms and delivering new ways of thinking. Yes, we’re experiencing unprecedented disruptions to the way we work and the

www.defenceconnect.com.au 19 Maritime Special Edition Profile

FUTURE PROOF COMMUNICATIONS The latest version of our tried and proven naval integrated communications system is planned for integration into the Austal-built Cape Class patrol boats for the Royal Australian Navy

communications via a uniform IP network, using ruggedised, conventional IT technology. This is a completely scalable solution, suitable for small offshore patrol vessels and major surface combatants, Nigel Catchlove reducing costs fleet-wide for training and national marketing manager, through-life support. Rohde & Schwarz (Australia) Rohde & Schwarz was established in Germany in 1933 and has since grown to become a $3 billion global company that develops a wide range of electronic goods for industry, infrastructure operators, defence or 40 years the Royal Australian Navy and government customers. The independent has been using radio communications group is among the technology leaders in Fsystems designed, developed and made military voice and data communications, by Rohde & Schwarz. At Rohde & Schwarz cyber security and network technology. in Australia we have invested in facilities, Rohde & Schwarz has provided equipment infrastructure and people to support the on 10 different naval platforms in the region. Royal New Zealand Navy and the Royal We understand what Navy needs and are Australian Navy as it embarks on its largest able to provide highly secure encryption naval fleet building program since WWII. algorithms and fast frequency-hopping The latest version of our tried and proven techniques that safeguard communications naval integrated communications system against eavesdropping and jamming. is planned for integration into the Austal- It’s not only onboard systems that we built Cape Class patrol boats for the Royal provide, Rohde & Schwarz will collaborate Australian Navy. with Babcock Australasia to support the A similar system is being fitted to the Fixed High Frequency Radio Refresh (FHFRR) Type 26 Global Combat Ship in the UK. project recently awarded to Babcock by The systems connect the distributed on- the New Zealand Ministry of Defence. As a board voice terminals as well as all other subcontractor, Rohde & Schwarz will provide subsystems for internal and external R&S M3SR Series4100 high frequency radios,

Maritime Special Edition 20 www.defenceconnect.com.au “THE LATEST VERSION OF OUR TRIED AND PROVEN NAVAL INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM IS PLANNED FOR INTEGRATION INTO THE AUSTAL- BUILT CAPE CLASS PATROL BOATS FOR THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY” high power amplifiers (5 kW and 10 kW) and communications solutions on surface spares for the program. combatants, support vessels and submarines. Babcock Australasia is also tendering for Our growing integration facility in the ADF Enhanced Defence High Frequency Sydney, collocated with the most highly Communications System program, again capable electronic repair and calibration partnering with Rohde & Schwarz. lab in Australia, shows that we understand Rohde & Schwarz equipment is made industry’s role as one of the fundamental entirely from components made by Rohde inputs to ADF capability. & Schwarz. Customers benefit from the fact that we control manufacturing priorities and production security. Rohde & Schwarz is both Brought to you by system integrator and the manufacturer of core components. Our background in naval communications is built on decades of experience supporting navies around the globe with integrated

www.defenceconnect.com.au 21 Maritime Special Edition PROTECTED. CONNECTED. TRUSTED NAVICS® IP-based integrated communications allow seamless and secure communications between voice terminals, smartphones and telephony services as well as close integration with the broadcast and alarm system. More than 40 navies around the world rely on our tailored solutions to gain information superiority www.rohde-schwarz.com.au Naval Aviation SWORDFISH TO ROMEO: THE EVOLUTION OF THE FLEET AIR ARM The inextricable relationship between the sea and the skies, and the opportunity provided by naval aviation, has been observable since the inception of the Royal Australian Navy in 1911

BY HANNAH DOWLING

n the RAN’s founding year, Australian- history is complete without an understanding born Sir Arthur Langmore, now of the vital role of HMAS Albatross - the Iconsidered a pioneer of naval aviation, on-shore home of the RAN’s Fleet Air Arm. became one of the first naval officers to Located six kilometres shy of Nowra in NSW, complete his pilot qualifications. Albatross is the largest Naval operational Sir Arthur manned a Sopwith Baby seaplane establishment in Australia and the RAN’s only off HMAS Brisbane in 1917, and conducted air station. The site was built shortly after the first water landing in Britain during the WWII and was declared as an RAAF airfield, war. By the end of WWI, over 80 Australians commencing operations in 1942. It was later had served their country as a part of the occupied by US Army Air Corps and the Royal Royal Navy Air Services (RNAS). Following Netherlands East Indies Army Air Force. By the formation of the Royal Australian Air late 1944, the base was transferred to the Force in 1921, the control of naval aviation RAN for the purposes of housing its Pacific- fell out of the hands of the RAN, and the based Fleet Air Arm, and was commissioned idea of the Fleet Air Arm (FAA) felt lost. At as Royal Navy Air Station HMAS Nabbington. that time the RAAF was supplying aircraft, The base was reverted back to RAAF control pilots, and maintenance personnel to the in March 1946 in an understanding to see the site “be retained but not maintained”. RAN, while the Navy provided aircrew, with In July 1947, the Commonwealth Defence observers and telegraphist air gunners. Council approved the formation of an This policy stayed in place until 1944, official Fleet Air Arm to be controlled and when the last seaplane was removed from operated by the RAN. Initial planning for the RAN carriers and single-engine low- FAA included the purchase of two aircraft performance reconnaissance aircraft fell out carriers, HMA Ships Sydney and Melbourne, of favour. However, by the end of WWII, the and corresponding aircraft and shore importance of meaningful air support at sea facilities, located at Nowra. In August 1948, became apparent, and the beginnings of the the site was finally commissioned into the RAN’s Fleet Air Arm came to fruition. RAN as HMAS Albatross. HMAS Sydney’s Welcome to Albatross maiden voyage disembarked to Nowra in No discussion of Australia’s naval aviation May 1949.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 23 Maritime Special Edition Naval Aviation

“BY THE END OF WWII, THE IMPORTANCE OF MEANINGFUL AIR SUPPORT AT SEA BECAME APPARENT, AND THE BEGINNINGS OF THE RAN’S FLEET AIR ARM CAME TO FRUITION”

HMAS Melbourne II with HMAS Brisbane and HMNZS Canterbury as “GUARD” ships returning from Silver Jubilee Spithead review, 1977 Source: Department of Defence

Maritime Special Edition 24 www.defenceconnect.com.au It saw the delivery of the 805 and 806 introduction of MRH-90 helicopters, MH-60R squadrons, known as the 20th Carrier Air Seahawk helicopters, and the EC135 training Group (CAG), operating Hawker Sea Furies and helicopters,” CDRE Dezentje says. Fairey Fireflies, respectively. Sydney returned Meanwhile, Phase 8 of the AIR 9000 program to England in November 1950 to collect the 21st involved the acquisition of 24 MH-60R ‘Romeo’ CAG, consisting of the 808 and 817 squadrons, Seahawk helicopters - often referred to as also flying Sea Furies and Fireflies. ‘next-generation submarine hunters’ - as well Since then, Albatross has grown significantly, as associated weapons and support systems. For as more complex aircraft have been acquired, Albatross, the project required the construction and ground support facilities and systems have of a suite of new dedicated maintenance, expanded in suit. In the 1950s, the RAN set about training and operations support facilities, replacing its ageing piston-engine aircraft, with including simulators. This upgrade saw “broad- De Havilland Sea Venom all-weather fighter ranging changes” to Albatross, and included jets and Fairey Gannett AS1 turboprop aircraft. the co-location and construction of a Sikorsky Both would be set to serve on HMAS Melbourne, “dedicated deep level maintenance facility”. which was undergoing modernisation in the This facility was purpose-built by Sikorsky UK at the time. These new aircraft required (Lockheed Martin) and provides “synergy Albatross to facilitate radar workshops and test between contracted deep maintenance with the facilities, requiring upgrades. ADF”, according to CDRE Dezentje. Later, in 1958, a new control tower was built “The shared facility approach by the two in response to an increase in aircraft and the Squadrons (725 and 816) has provided efficiency necessity of stricter standards of air traffic dividends,” he says. control. Further expansions of facilities and For CDRE Dezentje and the whole of the FAA, services were required in the mid-1960s, after the upgrades conducted over the last decade at the introduction of Wessex helicopters, with HMAS Albatross have been “tailored to support a dunking sonar capability, and the addition the latest generation of naval aviation”. of American aircraft - including McDonnell By concentrating all manners of training, Douglas Skyhawks and Grumman Trackers - sustainment, support and operations in the required avionics facilities to be built, to serve one location in Nowra, “temporal discipline the complex equipment they carrier. has been enhanced, creating a multiplying In recognition of the vital role that the on- effect”, for CDRE Dezentje. shore infrastructure plays for the ongoing “Collectively, these facilities are providing operations of the RAN and the FAA, Albatross the foundation for success in the training of continues to expand to this day. The HMAS our people and provision of maritime aviation Albatross Redevelopment project has been capability. Changes were considered as part underway since 2011, when it was introduced of the operational needs of the new platforms into Parliament, in order to “assure future base that came into service and were an integrated operational needs and support capabilities for element of overall project considerations,” the next 30 years”, according to Commodore CDRE Dezentje says. Don Dezentje, CSM, Commander of the “This approach has meant that the Fleet Air Arm. While some alterations were introduction of new aircraft was adequately required over time, CDRE Dezentje notes that and appropriately supported by the key “a range of base-wide underground utility infrastructure that modern aircraft, equipment services at Albatross had essentially not been and people supporting these systems need.” upgraded since 1942”, necessitating the $200 million redevelopment. The development Introducing Romeo saw the improvement of “base capacity The MH-60R Seahawk helicopter, often and performance” through the upgrade of referred to as ‘Romeo’, is known as the next- trunk engineering services that supported generation submarine hunter and anti-surface “critical operational, training, security and warfare rotary wing aircraft. The helicopter administrative elements”. is equipped with highly sophisticated combat “It provided significant reinvestment in systems, and is designed to employ Hellfire engineering services, and common facilities air-to-surface missiles and the Mark 54 anti- necessary to ensure the base could support the submarine torpedo.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 25 Maritime Special Edition Naval Aviation

“Equipped with air-to-surface weapons, Indigenous trainee sponsorships, and a range torpedoes and advanced sensors, the MH- of graduate programs created in conjunction 60R provides the maritime combat helicopter with Australian universities. capability, optimised for anti-submarine The significance of the RAN’s replacement warfare and anti-surface warfare,” of the S-70B-2 Seahawk fleet with MH-60R CDRE Dezentje says. Romeos is two-fold. Firstly, the helicopters Further, the Romeo is fully compatible with serve as a vital link to “extending the eyes the Australian Defence Force’s network- and ears” of the RAN’s ships that forge below centric warfare systems, which simplifies the them, with future enhancements set to only helicopter’s integration and interoperability expand their capabilities in surveillance and with other ADF assets, including the air communication. Secondly, and perhaps more warfare destroyer, submarine fleet, and P-8 importantly, the “off-the-shelf” acquisition Poseidon, F/A-18 Hornet and F-35A Lightning of the Romeos brought the Australian II fixed-wing aircraft. The MH-60R and its Navy back in step with its US counterpart, enhanced mission systems replaced the Navy’s minimising unique Australian modifications, fleet of S-70B-2 Seahawk aircraft, which were and paving the way for future expansion of retired from service on 1 December 2017. not only the MH-60R program, but the future The $3 billion acquisition was approved by of the Australian Navy. the Australian government in June 2011, with “Although the S-70B-2 and the MH-60R the first of 24 MH-60R Romeos delivered to appear to be the same aircraft, there are the RAN in 2013. The acquired aircraft were significant differences between the two purchased off-the-shelf through the foreign variants,” CDRE Dezentje says. He explains military sales (FMS) program in conjunction that the RAN has ultimately decided to with the US Navy and manufacturer “remain in lock-step” with the US Navy on Lockheed Martin. both aircraft configuration and procedures, “We delivered the first two aircraft in order to have scope to expand and enhance in December of 2013, and we achieved both systems and procedures. operational capability with the Royal “This is different from how the Fleet Air Australian Navy in 2015. That was deliberately Arm introduced and employed the S-70B-2, aligned to ensure that as the Hobart Class which had bespoke mission systems installed destroyers were fielded, that Australia’s naval in an airframe purchased under a direct aviation had a renewed capability in anti- commercial sale arrangement. This meant submarine and anti-surface warfare,” Neale the S-70B-2 was a stand-alone fleet of Prescott, business development manager only 16 aircraft, leaving Australia without for Lockheed Martin, says. The final of any economies of scale,” he says. “In Australia’s 24 Romeos were delivered by comparison, the MH-60R system allows the Lockheed Martin in 2017, with full operational RAN to leverage from the US Navy fleet of capacity achieved 18 months later. approximately 300 aircraft and the associated The aircraft were purchased and continue large support systems.” to be supported through an ongoing FMS One major impact of the off-the-shelf contract with the US Navy and Lockheed acquisition process was the RAN’s return to a Martin. The arrangement has seen Lockheed forward-firing anti-surface warfare weapons Martin establish purpose-built deep level system, as the helicopter is network-enabled maintenance and warehouse facilities at HMAS with its own unique weapons suite. This was Albatross, to cater to the ongoing maintenance noted as a “significant change” for the RAN of the Romeos. This arrangement ensures by CDRE Dezentje. the employment of almost 200 personnel on Despite this, he continues: “AIR 9000 Australian shores. Phase 8 has been successful due to the in- “We’ve got over 180 people working step alignment of configuration with the US on MH-60R, and 10 new apprentices,” Navy and minimisation of Australian unique Prescott reveals. He emphasises the work modifications. Lessons learned from this and Lockheed Martin is doing to provide greater other naval aviation projects have been to opportunities for Australians, particularly buy off-the-shelf, proven aircraft that are in with the recent introduction of three service with a comparable military service.”

Maritime Special Edition 26 www.defenceconnect.com.au HMAS Melbourne II entering Sydney Harbour Source: Department of Defence

While some may argue that the RAN and proofing their products for the benefit of Australian Defence loses a sense of its unique the defence industry, according to Prescott. identity by utilising this arrangement, CDRE He noted that Lockheed Martin’s “open Dezentje instead argues that in having system architecture” allows for the mission “shared outcomes” for the capability of the system within the aircraft to be continuously aircraft and ultimately the Defence Force, “we updated, which further necessitates the often find ourselves aligned on which path to dedicated service and maintenance facilities develop the capability”. based at Albatross in Nowra. The use of FMS contracts for the purchase According to CDRE Dezentje, enhancements of off-the-shelf aircraft as well as ongoing are already set to be made to the MH- service and maintenance facilities provides 60R’s “passive and active sensors”, which Australia with a “sovereign capability in will essentially see the aircraft provided a close partnership with the US Navy”, with increased ability to “share and see according to CDRE Dezentje, which also information more widely”. ultimately allow the ADF to work with the US “This will enable the helicopter to have Navy in expanding Australian capability into better situational awareness and control the future. networked enabled weapons,” CDRE Dezentje This then raises the question - what is says. “The maritime and littoral battlespace the future of Australia’s MH-60R Romeos? is becoming ever more joint and collaborative, A significant component of the Lockheed and the MH-60R is optimised to sit in the Martin manufactured aircraft is their middle of that environment with the various “transformational approach” to future- weapons, systems and links that it provides.”

www.defenceconnect.com.au 27 Maritime Special Edition Naval Aviation

According to the Commander of the FAA, For Australia, these developments, and Australia is also heavily invested in the particularly the technology that they bring US Navy’s “ongoing technology upgrade to the US Defence Force, are going to be roadmap”, which will ensure that the Romeos significant moving forward. remain “relevant and capable”. “Australia in the next 10 years will look at “The high levels of integration that come replacing its armed reconnaissance aircraft, with the MH-60R provide a broad range and start examining what it does with the of flexible capability options to meet the battlefield lift,” Prescott says, referring to requirements of the contemporary embarked the Australian Army’s LAND 4503 program, Combat Commander,” CDRE Dezentje says. which aims to replace the current fleet According to the FAA, this includes an of EC665 Tiger armed reconnaissance ongoing supporting project, SEA 5510 Phase 1, helicopters (ARH) by the mid-2020s. run by both the USN and the RAN in a joint According to Prescott, in conjunction with Capability Assurance Program that is funded programs occurring in the US and the push to maximise commonality of configuration towards FVL, Lockheed Martin’s Raider X and enhance interoperability between the technology could very well play a significant RAN and US Navy’s MH-60R fleets. role in the future of Australian Defence and rotary aircraft. The future of naval aviation in Australia “Over 10 years ago, we created an As you now know, through the increasing experimental aircraft which achieved a speed focus on FMS and getting the Australian Navy of 250 [knots],” he says. back “in lock-step” with the USN, the future For context, typically aircraft with of naval aviation in Australia is largely linked conventional rotary wings operate at around to the programs that are currently being 180 knots. The Raider X system consists explored in the US. Perhaps the most relevant of two main coaxial rotor blades, which and critical program to focus on is what is are counter rotating, and a single pusher referred to as Future Vertical Lift (FVL). propeller. Prescott states that the success According to Prescott, FVL is the US Army’s achieved by the helicopter is due to the control “highest priority aviation modernisation system, the management of vibration, and the program”, and Lockheed Martin has marked use of “advanced composite material”. itself as a significant player in the future “This means the aircraft fly substantially of defence aviation through a number of faster, and they have a longer endurance, a technology-based advancements in its aircraft. longer range and greater manoeuvrability,” “As we look at the type of warfare that’s he adds. occurring, land forces are needing to be able to However, the future of naval aviation be inserted over longer distances. They need expands beyond simply faster, more to be able to stand back from the edge of the manoeuvrable multi-blade rotary aircraft. battlefield but then move quickly and safely According to the FAA’s CDRE Dezentje, the into these areas,” Prescott notes, as a key Navy intends to continue its investment in starting point for the future development of maritime unmanned aircraft systems (MUAS), Lockheed Martin aircraft. and is currently in the development phase “In March, the Sikorsky Raider X was one with 822X Squadron, experimenting with two of the aircraft selected for the ‘future armed unmanned aerial systems - the Insitu Scan reconnaissance aircraft’ and ... we were Eagle and the Schiebel S-100. The program is also selected with a Sikorsky Boeing Defiant referred to as Project SEA 129-5 MUAS. aircraft for a program called the ‘future long- The ScanEagle is one of the most widely range assault aircraft.’” used tactical unmanned aircraft systems Prescott elaborates: “So these are, if you like, in the world, and has flown over 1 million a family of aircraft designed to modernise the flight hours in total across all its global fleet. US Army, and that covers everything from The ScanEagle system consists of multiple light reconnaissance right through to medium remotely piloted long endurance fixed wing battlefield lift, and then there is a potential aircraft. The planes are capable of runway further phase that would look at the medium- independent operations from both land bases to-heavy lift aircraft.” and seagoing vessels.

Maritime Special Edition 28 www.defenceconnect.com.au HMAS Melbourne II berthed in Hong Kong, 1970

“LAND FORCES ARE NEEDING TO BE ABLE TO BE INSERTED OVER LONGER DISTANCES. THEY NEED TO BE ABLE TO STAND BACK FROM THE EDGE OF THE BATTLEFIELD BUT THEN MOVE QUICKLY AND SAFELY INTO THESE AREAS”

Meanwhile, the Schiebel S-100 camcopter “An element of 822X Squadron is a small-medium sized vertical take- experimentation activities has been on off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, made of capability exploitation in order to ensure titanium and carbon fibre materials. The that we are fully informed when it comes S-100 consists of one or more remotely to a decision for SEA 129-5. The manned/ piloted aircraft and a ground control unmanned relationship will bring manned and system, with all associated interconnections unmanned aviation into shared airspace and necessary for RPA command and control. provide opportunities for mutual tasking,” The aircraft is designed to carry multiple CDRE Dezentje says. “This cross-over will payloads simultaneously for up to six hours potentially become more pronounced within a at a time. contested environment, where our most vital Through the 822X Squadron, and the resource (our people) are utilised in a manner development phase of Project SEA 129-5, which minimises risk as far as practicable.” the RAN continues to improve its knowledge As such, the continued investment in MUAS and understanding of the UAS environment. and the ongoing Project SEA 129-5 program The current development phase of MUAS will see enhancements made within Albatross, technologies is “informing Project 129‑5 to better cater and support these technologies, and improving knowledge, operational and better expand new MUAS capabilities. experience, training, airworthiness “UAS will be critical to operations in a management and development of capability contested environment. There are also options that support integrated warfare tremendous opportunities within the outcomes”, according to CDRE Dezentje. unmanned system domain to extend the range The FAA appears to have a clear vision and effectiveness of a surface vessel. This that the future of naval aviation lives in potential will continue to expand and develop unmanned aircraft. over the coming years,” CDRE Dezentje says.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 29 Maritime Special Edition Profile

SUSTAINING THE CANBERRA CLASS LHD CAPABILITY – PHASE SIX AND BEYOND – Navantia Australia is a key partner to the LHD Asset Class Prime Contractor (ACPC), providing engineering and material procurement services and “smart sustainment” analysis. Supported with the design heritage for the Canberra Class, Navantia Australia has established a highly skilled, sovereign sustainment support capability in Australia that is uniquely positioned to support the Navy in undertaking planned major system upgrades for the LHD platforms

analysis. Supported with the design heritage for the Canberra Class, Navantia Australia has established a highly skilled, sovereign sustainment support capability in Australia that is uniquely positioned to support the By Jamie Gibbs Navy in undertaking planned major system head of engineering, upgrades for the LHD platforms. Navantia Australia Fundamental to the support of major system upgrade projects is to achieve a thorough understanding of the vessel platform design and operational capability, ince construction, delivery and established from the original design commissioning of the Canberra Class architecture and specifications. The Slanding helicopter docks (LHD) into Canberra Class vessels have been designed the Royal Australian Navy fleet, Navantia with a ship growth margin to accommodate has provided continuous support to the future ship upgrades and modifications. sustainment and upgrade of these critical asset The growth margins cover such aspects as vessels. Navantia Australia is a key partner weight and weight distribution (that directly to the LHD Asset Class Prime Contractor relates to ship stability, speed and range), (ACPC), providing engineering and material electrical power supply and distribution, procurement services and “smart sustainment” and heating and cooling capacity.

Maritime Special Edition 30 www.defenceconnect.com.au HMAS Adelaide conducts First of Class Flight Trials for the MH-60 Romeo helicopter off the coast of Queensland Source: Department of Defence

HMAS Adelaide conducts First of Class Flight Trials for the MRH-90 Taipan off the coast of Queensland Source: Department of Defence

The feasibility assessment phase of a major Design documentation is developed in system upgrade program studies the end user to production work packages, detailing requirements for the system upgrade and materials, production methods, production presents viable options that not only consider sequence and applicable work standards. value for money and effectiveness of the Support throughout the implementation solution, but also consequential impacts on the phase provides for “in-build” design growth margins. Navantia Australia employs a variations to be rapidly assessed full systems engineering process in undertaking and processed. any major system upgrade program, with a Final test and system activation is focus on program risk reduction. conducted in close collaboration with The requirements development phase of the program stakeholders, system operators program is used to document and evolve and equipment suppliers. system operational requirements, establish the level of compliance to standards and In May 2020, Navantia Australia and the mandated regulations, and assess impact Department of Defence signed a strategic to extant ship specification requirements. agreement, recognising Navantia as a Engagement with the end-users of any ship design authority for the Canberra Class system is critical in the initiating phase to LHDs and their landing craft, Hobart Class ensure that resulting system designs meet guided missile destroyers and Supply the optimal operational outcome. Class replenishment ships. The strategic In-depth analysis and documentation of agreement underpins Navantia Australia’s system interfaces and platform system commitment to the Royal Australian Navy integration is established through design in the provision of engineering services to documentation and system modelling. the Canberra Class and all four classes of System computer simulation and reliability Navantia designed ships. analysis provides methods for testing designs and reducing technical and program risks. Preliminary and detailed design phases Brought to you by are completed using contemporary 3D modelling, employing virtual reality models to provide program stakeholders with a system interaction experience well ahead of physical implementation.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 31 Maritime Special Edition Profile

IXBLUE: POWERING GREATER AUTONOMY IN KEY NAVAL PROGRAMS From its beginning in the subsea industry, iXblue has quickly become a strong force in the global military geospatial and navigation markets. Now, iXblue’s recent selection as a supplier to the Royal Australian Navy’s SEA 1180 and SEA 2400 projects will see iXblue’s market-leading technologies in service in Australia for years to come, as Geoff Lawes, CTO iXblue Sea Operations Australia, explains

selection of iXblue to supply equipment and services to two related naval programs. iXblue is recognised for its pioneering work on the development of the fibre-optic Geoff Lawes gyroscope (FOG), acoustic and sonar signal chief technical officer, processing, inertial-acoustic sensor data fusion iXblue Sea Operations and high-tech composite vessel manufacture. Australia As a global leader in these fields, iXblue already boasts a long list of high-profile naval clients. This list includes the Royal Navy, which utilises iXblue’s inertial navigation systems and gyrocompasses across much of here is a lot to be excited about in the the fleet, including the strategic Astute Class Naval Defence sector in Australia. The submarines and Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft T Royal Australian Navy is embarking carrier; the French Navy, which uses iXblue’s on the largest fleet modernisation in decades navigation software across the fleet and will be with a pivot to continuous shipbuilding, an installing iXblue’s inertial navigation systems increased focus on autonomous technologies in the Future FTI Frigates; and, since 2007, and broad engagement with industrial partners the Royal Australian Navy, which uses iXblue to improve national geospatial databases. inertial navigation systems and subsea acoustic For a company such as iXblue, an systems throughout the hydrographic force. international high-tech firm of 650 people With the recent selection of iXblue inertial with a keen interest in military navigation navigation systems and gyrocompasses to equip sensors, autonomous systems and geospatial the SEA 1180 offshore patrol vessels, iXblue is data collection, there is now extra cause beginning a new chapter of engagement in the for excitement, especially given the recent Australian naval defence sector.

Maritime Special Edition 32 www.defenceconnect.com.au iXblue’s DriX un-crewed vessels provide true offshore survey capability with several days endurance

The Marins M11 limits drift to less than 1 nm in 360 hours

“To be chosen as the supplier of INS and to provide the highest quality bathymetric, gyrocompass for the first of the continuous oceanographic and geospatial information in shipbuilding programs is a great recognition support of national Defence objectives and of our technology and of our ongoing support maritime safety in Australia. to the Royal Australian Navy,” says David “Our Australian subsidiary, iXblue Pty Ltd, Cunningham, commercial director at iXblue. has been conducting this type of work in “It’s also a great opportunity to invest in New Zealand and the south Pacific for over our Australian workforce and local partners 10 years,” says David Donohue, managing and suppliers.” director of iXblue in Australia. iXblue hopes to be able to offer its Marins “It’s a welcome change for our local workforce inertial navigation systems in future strategic to be able to use their skills and experience programs in Australia, including its Marins in Australia as the RAN begins to engage M11 – the highest accuracy inertial navigation commercial operators to assist in this role.” system on the market, which would enable a As part of its contribution to the SEA 2400 ship or submarine to have full navigational program, iXblue is bringing its DriX un- autonomy, without reliance on external crewed surface vessels to Australia. Already positioning sources like GPS. proven in the New Zealand fjords, UK wind In addition to the selection of iXblue to farms, islands of Tonga, and offshore gas supply the SEA 1180 program, iXblue has fields in Mexico, the DriX vessels represent been appointed to the supplier panel for the a quantum leap in geospatial data collection SEA 2400 Hydrographic Industry Partnership capability and efficiency compared to Program. iXblue was recently awarded the first traditional survey methods. iXblue will contract to supply hydrographic data under be working with several local suppliers this historical partnership and will be bringing and government agencies to operate this some new and exciting technology to bear in important new capability in Australia. Australia as the program matures. Under the SEA 2400 program, iXblue’s Australia- and New Zealand-based sea and air Brought to you by operations teams, will use high-tech acoustic systems, inertial navigation systems, ships, aircraft and “DriX” un-crewed surface vessels

www.defenceconnect.com.au 33 Maritime Special Edition Aegle / SEA 5000

AEGIS: A PATH TO EXCELLENCE FOR HUNTER AND HOBART With a history of naval ship integration spanning almost four decades, the Aegis Combat System is an integral part of Australian next-gen naval strategy

BY SANDY MILNE

From Ticonderoga to Hunter – The evolution and technological supremacy at all costs, this of Aegis combined the US Navy’s most significant Aegis traces its history back to the throes offensive assets with its most effective of the Cold War, when tensions between overarching combat system. the US and the Soviet Union were at their Updates in subsequent years, including most strained. With each nation jockeying to integration of the MK-41 Vertical Launching expand their respective spheres of influence, System (VLS) in 1986, secured the system’s military and civilian technology came along pride of place at the heart of US naval in quantum leaps over the space of just a few strategy. While perhaps better known among decades. One such development was the Aegis allies for the defensive capabilities it offers, Combat System, a holistic battle management the system integrates this with first-strike platform automated from detection through capability – and was even relied on in 2008 to strike phase. Yet unlike many Cold War-era to gun down an errant US-produced satellite advancements, Aegis has not been relented to on track to fall back to Earth. the history books – but rather, continuously “Aegis is not a one-trick pony,” said Jim upgraded, streamlined, and advanced. Sheridan, director of Aegis USN development Initially called the Advanced Surface Missile for Lockheed Martin at the time. “It’s a System (ASMS), the system we now know as multi-mission platform — capable of anti- Aegis was able to lock onto multiple enemy aircraft warfare, ballistic missile defence assets simultaneously, as well as continuously as well as anti-surface and anti-submarine monitor and update battlespace information warfare — which is why there is a high level in an age where most comparable systems of interest in Aegis from our allies.” did so every 10 to 20 seconds. In 1983, the In October 2017, the Turnbull government USS Ticonderoga (CG 47) was commissioned officially green-lit the decision to equip both into service as the first Aegis-compatible the Hobart Class air warfare destroyer and missile cruiser. Under the careful guidance the Hunter Class future frigate with Lockheed of an administration looking to foster naval Martin’s Aegis Combat System.

Maritime Special Edition 34 www.defenceconnect.com.au (L-R) HMA Ships Hobart, Arunta, Stuart and Sirius unite off the east coast of Australia on their way to Bass Strait and the start of Fleet Certification Period 2020 Source: Department of Defence

Today, with respective SEA 4000 and SEA Australia’s Navy with the world’s best 5000 programs both tracking towards timely technology”. Compared with the previous completion, the Royal Australian Navy Anzac iteration, which was limited to the 50 looks to operate the largest fleet of Aegis- kilometres offered by its ESSM, Aegis boasts enabled warships outside of the US, with 12 established layered defence capability out to frontline vessels in total – comprising three the significantly longer range of the SM-2 guided missile destroyers (DDGs) and nine weapon (upwards of 150 kilometres). future frigates. Australia’s embrace of the system brought it Defence Connect discussed the relationship into line with some of the more technically- between Aegis and Australia with some capable navies across the international of Lockheed Martin Australia’s top market – in addition to the RAN and the representatives, in order to deliver exclusive USN, the system has also been adopted by insight into the path forward for Aegis and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, the the SEA 4000/5000 programs. Royal Canadian Navy, the Spanish Navy, the Royal Norwegian Navy, and the Republic of Australia joins the global Aegis fleet Korea Navy. At the time the Aegis rollout was announced, These developments, however, have then-defence minister Marise Payne stated been limited to the course of previous that the multibillion-dollar investment into years. In reality, Aegis traces its roots back the system was geared towards “equipping half a century in the US – and coupled

www.defenceconnect.com.au 35 Maritime Special Edition Aegle/SEA 5000

HMA Ships Canberra, Hobart, Choules, Stuart and Adelaide sail in formation during Force Integration Training off the east coast of Australia Source: Department of Defence Delivering superior “AEGIS IS NOT A ONE-TRICK PONY. IT’S A MULTI-MISSION PLATFORM — CAPABLE OF ANTI- AIRCRAFT WARFARE, BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE navigation. AS WELL AS ANTI-SURFACE AND ANTI-SUBMARINE WARFARE — WHICH IS WHY THERE IS A HIGH LEVEL OF INTEREST IN AEGIS FROM OUR ALLIES”

with the country’s keen sense of defence listens; by keeping groupware interoperable, entrepreneurship, the Aegis Combat System the company is able to respond rapidly to issues has spent this time in a constant state of that arise across deployed fleets. evolution. From sensitive radar detection Under ASToC, LM teams collaborate actively systems through to combat-oriented with their counterparts in respective navies, components, the company has continually allowing ideas to make their way from the produced and integrated upgrades at an blackboard to system integration in as little unmatched rate – and as Rob Milligan, LMA’s as six months. Close collaboration between Integrated Warfare Systems & Sensors Line of government and industry partners leads up Business Lead explains, this isn’t by accident. to the Integration Review, which Milligan says is “the final step where the software Aegis and Australia changes are fully integrated into the baseline Aegis as part of the fifth-generation and the improved performance is validated”. Marins Series ‘joint force’ The company attributes significant cost- Combat-proven One of the key aspects behind Aegis’ success savings to the ASToC framework, stating FOG Inertial has been a deliberate push towards “open- that the Aegis program has saved more than Navigation Systems architecture” design. That’s according to US$166 million in unnecessary expenditure Limited drift up Milligan, who spoke to what the company over the last three years. to 1Nm/360h terms its Aegis Speed to Capability (ASToC) The benefits of working closely with framework – a point that serves allies in government counterparts from the outset terms of efficiency, as well as cross-fleet are similarly evident – while the industry- interoperability. Ultimately, the ASToC government interface can all too often get framework helps instil a culture of rapid in the way of efficient problem-solving, LM innovation, prioritising both the identification reports that when the US Coast Guard joined of high-priority targets and solutions to plug the Aegis program with its National Security these gaps. While the company releases periodic Cutter, product requirement specifications upgrades – the so-called “Aegis Baselines” were identified in a fortnight, as opposed to – at a rate of once every four years, these are the expected four months. Milligan puts this complemented by software updates provided clearly, stating that ASToC allows the team to on an ad hoc basis. When Navy talks, LM “get capability to the fleet as fast as possible”.

Maritime Special Edition 36 www.defenceconnect.com.au Delivering superior navigation.

Marins Series Combat-proven FOG Inertial Navigation Systems Limited drift up to 1Nm/360h Aegle/SEA 5000

He also adds that one of the defining features behind this open architecture model is what LM terms the Aegis “Common Source Library” (CSL). A shared, fully interoperable software platform unveiled as part of the Aegis Baseline 9 package, he says that it “enables repetitive and continuous use of proven software to be leveraged across the five nations that use Aegis”. This has the dual effect of both lowering costs and increasing efficiency – allowing fleets to build once, but use multiple times. Minister Payne, it seems, was aware of the benefits when she delivered her comments at the joint announcement in Canberra. Yet how has Aegis integration fared in the interim, and has it lived up to the hype?

Delivering a capability leap to the RAN – Aegis and the Hobart Class At present, LMA has integrated the Aegis An artist’s impression of the BAE Systems SEA 5000 Combat System into the Hobart Class Future Frigate, Global Combal Ship – Australia destroyers, and is providing full custodian Source: Department of Defence/BAE Systems services (including sustainment and upgrades) to the DDG fleet – which includes HMA Ships Hobart, Brisbane and Sydney. Of course, it’s worth bearing in mind that the imposition of strict travel restrictions has posed a unique set HMAS Brisbane has also undergone Aegis of challenges for those working with Aegis. system upgrades which have never been While, traditionally, the RAN would look to completed internationally before. As Milligan leverage US support to overcome logistical puts it, the “sovereign capability that [LMA] issues with the system, the coronavirus has been building over the last three-four years outbreak has made international collaboration has crystallised through the COVID phase”. In difficult – if not impossible. Luckily, it just turn, this has meant that the three Hobart Class so happens that both the RAN and LMA have air warfare destroyers (AWDs) have been able channelled significant investment into the right to remain operational throughout this critical places to manage these challenges without in- period, allowing Australia to maintain her person oversight from US personnel. contribution to Exercise RIMPAC in Hawaii. In collaboration with members of industry and the RAN, high-tech work on the Aegis Aegis and SEA 5000 – A synopsis system has been carried out here in Australia, Over in Adelaide, Aegis has seen considerable marking the very first time these works progress in terms of integration into have been performed outside of the US, or by the Hunter Class program. A thoroughly non‑US personnel. This runs the gamut from collaborative process, Aegis has largely retained standard network service through to sensitive responsibility for managing surface and air maintenance activities on the AN/SPY-1D(V) warfare components, while SAAB has been radar, the heart of the Aegis system. Lockheed delegated oversight of the underwater space Martin also says that “specialist upgrades through the Australian tactical interface. Yet and deep maintenance [were made to] the Milligan says that the process has remained Aegis Weapons System including SPY-1D(V) collaborative through and through; so much so, radar systems onboard the RAN Hobart Class he says, that “when you walk on the floor of the destroyers during May and June”. The works Hunter Class, it can be difficult to tell whether were carried out at Sydney’s Garden Island, as you’re talking to Lockheed, BAE, or SAAB part of a combat system enterprise approach. people”. All this, he adds, bodes well for the

Maritime Special Edition 38 www.defenceconnect.com.au Future Frigates are expected to include a host of other homegrown and non-US components; including Australian communications systems and the Nulka missile decoy. With the latter designed in Australia by DST, but jointly developed with AWA Defence Industries (a precursor to BAE Systems), this speaks to the program’s potential to act not just as a catalyst for military efficiency, but also international collaboration that shores up and strengthens our bilateral ties with the US.

Growth potential for Aegis and Hunter As Aegis continues to cut across national, corporate and branch lines, the program would seem to hold considerable growth potential over and above the nine frigates expected to be delivered as part of the Hunter Class program. In fact, it also operates a Sydney-based “Aegis” hub, which brings together company personnel and elements of the RAN – from ship’s company through to the Fleet Support Unit (FSU). To this end, the company also adds that it is eyeing up opportunities to transfer some R&D opportunities Down Under, and that these instances may deepen global collaboration program – and the open architecture system with US partners. According to Milligan, has made it even easier for individual fleets to this may take the form of collaboration integrate domestic capabilities. with Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group, though it may also spill over to the Combining US and Australian combat system operational side. Lockheed Martin Australia is capabilities – CEAFAR2 and Aegis working in concert with industry and Defence In June 2018, the US State Department gave to shape Australia’s future defence force with approval for Australia to purchase long- smarter, fifth-generation technologies that lead equipment in order to integrate the ensure Australia is well equipped to meet its homegrown CEAFAR phased-array radar into future combat capability needs. the Aegis combat system. As ASPI’s Andrew Davies noted at the time, the decision was Aegis and Australia – Looking Stateside an economically sound one, rather than for inspiration particularly patriotic – as one of the best- Milligan notes that the company does look performing radars on the market, installation to “reach back” to resources in the US on the Anzac Class frigates showed the for additional support or subject-matter CEAFAR could integrate smoothly with SAAB’s expertise; understandable when, as he puts it, 9LV combat system. To that end, SAAB has “they’ve been using Aegis for 50 years, and been tasked with developing an Australian we’ve been using it for less than three”. Yet tactical interface, which allows for the smooth the degree to which the RAN’s Aegis assets integration of non-US components into the have been able to weather the COVID-19 Aegis system. storm shows that LMA has invested strongly This means that today, the Hunter Class in full-cycle Australian capability. From its is able to incorporate both the next-gen Cold War roots through to cutting-edge roles CEAFAR2 radar as well as the Aegis combat in recent military operations, Aegis continues system, married through a complex interface. to form a crux of Australian and US naval Defence, on its part, has also said that the strategy – as well as diplomatic ties.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 39 Maritime Special Edition Interview

Maritime Special Edition 40 www.defenceconnect.com.au LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY AND KNOWLEDGE TO SUPPORT NAVY AND AUSTRALIA’S MARITIME ECONOMY As an island nation, Australia is dependent upon maritime trade. Ensuring that Navy and the merchant shipping industry can safely traverse Australia’s waters is critical to, and the driving force behind, the innovative industry response of iXblue

BY STEPHEN KUPER

ustralia relies on sea transport for It is a strategically pivotal program aimed 99 per cent of its exports, with a at increasing the efficiency and coverage A substantial proportion of the nation’s of navigational safety surveys within domestic freight also depending on safe, Australia’s exclusive economic zone (AEEZ). reliable coastal shipping. David Donohue, managing director of This dependence upon the ocean not only iXblue Australia, explains to Defence colours our economic relationships, but also Connect the importance of the SEA 2400 the nation’s maritime security relationships program to Defence: “iXblue stepped and it informs the way in which defence into a role previously filled by the Navy’s plans its tactical and strategic protection of Hydrographic Service following guidance Australia and its interests. handed down in the 2016 Defence White As part of supporting the Commonwealth’s Paper for Defence to establish a new collaborative approach across Defence, the industry-focused national charting model civilian Australian Maritime Safety Authority similar to the US and UK models. and private industry, iXblue, a global high- “The resulting Hydrographic Industry tech company specialising in the design, Partnership Program is built upon the best manufacturing and deployment of advanced practice lessons from Navy and industry, marine and autonomous technologies, has and iXblue’s selection to the panel is the drawn on its broad experience, innovative culmination of a 10-year journey in support technology and local capability to support the of this initiative.” Navy as part of the SEA 2400 Hydrographic As part of its services and local capability Industry Partnership Program (HIPP). in support of SEA 2400 and other regional SEA 2400 is the company’s first program programs, iXblue provides geophysical, as a prime contractor to Defence in Australia. hydrographic, and topographic surveys

www.defenceconnect.com.au 41 Maritime Special Edition Interview

throughout Australia, NZ and the broader inertial navigation systems resulting in a Indo-Pacific region. leading-edge capability and sensor capacity The company is a service provider to for Defence.” the New Zealand government, Australian The DriX has been designed with the government and many Pacific nations – removal of human factors as a fundamental each of which draw on iXblue’s innovative aim, from launch and recovery to mission approach and local capability across a range execution. Fast, enduring, safe and offshore of areas, including a recently established proven, it shows outstanding sea keeping airborne topographic and bathymetric survey capabilities and advances the industry of team, based in Australia. surface drones several steps. Designed and The airborne team is a new capability for built by iXblue shipyard, following the in- the iXblue group, and it is focused on the house survey teams’ requirements, DriX Australian, New Zealand and Pacific markets. has been refined with iXblue’s long-time It has already commenced work on two international major partners in the fields of significant airborne LiDAR survey projects in geoscience and offshore energy. NZ, in partnership with Woolpert Inc. Donohue added, “We finished the first DriX Donohue adds, “The core of iXblue’s in 2018 and used it in the first commercial offering is a value proposition for mapping survey in the south-west Pacific 2018-19. the sea floor, providing Navy and civilian The platform performed exceptionally well, maritime traffic with accurate, high-fidelity and we’re looking forward to leveraging its geospatial data through efficient employment capabilities on a HIPP project in the very of a broad range of local capabilities. near future.” “For every dollar spent on maritime Initially targeted at the civilian market, surveillance and reconnaissance, including DriX has proved to be a real game changer. hydrographic survey, the return is valued at Now there are several DriX vessels around $10 – which demonstrates the value of the the world conducting successful operations service, not just to civilian and merchant ranging from subsea positioning to shipping, but to Defence as well.” bathymetry missions. Supporting this capability, iXblue also The global defence community has manufactures fibre-optic gyroscope (FOG) identified DriX as a real asset, which would based inertial navigation systems (INS), bring added value on the battlefield while as well as subsea acoustic positioning and keeping crews out of harm’s way. telemetry systems, sonar systems, pan This was reinforced by Donohue, who was and tilt positioners, motion simulators, upbeat about the platform and capability centrifuges, optical fibres, composite ships that DriX would offer to Navy as part of and autonomous small craft. the company’s ongoing role supporting Of particular relevance to the SEA 2400 the delivery of SEA 2400 and the HIPP, program is the company’s autonomous DriX saying, “The size and capability of the DriX surface vessel, which has quickly become means it’s incredibly flexible for future a global benchmark for capability and Navy operation, especially for hydrographic performance in the un-crewed hydrographic work. DriX is a means of deploying sensor survey role. packages in the ocean, with little-to-no risk Donohue remarks, “One of the key to personnel and at a lower cost than has decisions for iXblue to position the company been the case in the past.” for the program, was to develop an un- iXblue is a global group of companies, crewed, autonomous survey vessel (DriX), headquartered in Paris and has operated effectively leveraging ‘swarms’ and a concept a subsidiary incorporated in Australia similar to ‘force multiplication’ with a single (Brisbane) under the name iXsurvey and now mothership and multiple drones, enabling iXblue since 2008. more area to be mapped simultaneously, at a The Australian company encompasses significantly reduced cost. iXblue’s regional sea and air operations teams, “iXblue developed the DriX as a synthesis which conduct geophysical, hydrographic and of the various skills and capabilities topographic surveys throughout Australia, NZ present within the company, including and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Maritime Special Edition 42 www.defenceconnect.com.au “FOR EVERY DOLLAR SPENT ON MARITIME SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE, INCLUDING HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEY, THE RETURN IS VALUED AT $10 – WHICH DEMONSTRATES THE VALUE OF THE SERVICE, NOT JUST TO CIVILIAN AND MERCHANT SHIPPING, BUT TO DEFENCE AS WELL”

www.defenceconnect.com.au 43 Maritime Special Edition Interview

Maritime Special Edition 44 www.defenceconnect.com.au COMBINING EXPERIENCE, SUBJECT-MATTER EXPERTISE AND FORWARD THINKING TO SUPPORT DEFENCE CAPABILITY AT HOME AND ABROAD As Navy undergoes its largest peacetime modernisation and expansion in capability, the nexus between industry and government is bridged by consultants like Coras Solutions, which help to keep Defence running like a well-oiled machine

BY STEPHEN KUPER

efence consulting has traditionally support the defence market’s continuously been a highly competitive and tightly evolving demands. D guarded industry, dominated by the Coras is successfully supporting the large consultancy firms. However, times are delivery of a number of key programs, changing and for Coras Solutions, there is no including strategic sourcing at MCPSPO, better time to shift gears ahead of Australia’s engineering and commercial support for SEA period of significant defence investment. 1442-5, project management for AORSPO, Coras focuses on partnering with clients contract management at HSPO and the to facilitate organisational change through Adelaide Class frigate disposal for FFGSPO. pragmatic and forward-thinking solutions. Coras Solutions managing director Phil Drawing on specialist experience, the Coras Cutts highlights, “It’s an exciting time to be team has a growing portfolio of projects involved with the growth in Australian defence supporting Defence, other government industry. Interesting work with great clients is agencies and defence industry. very attractive to prospective employees.” Coras Solutions is a wholly Australian, The Adelaide Class frigate disposal program employee owned company delivering saw two of Australia’s frigates transferred to asset management, commercial advisory, a foreign Navy. governance and assurance, program FFGSPO drew on Coras Solutions’ expertise management, and business advisory services. through KEY MSP to provide FFG Capability With offices in Sydney, Canberra and a recent Transition Project commercial management addition in Adelaide, Coras is well placed to and support services.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 45 Maritime Special Edition Interview

The Coras team integrated with a wider collaboration that can occur within the major Defence Force, APS and defence industry service provider (MSP) construct. Coras team to meet rapidly evolving requirements. is delighted to be an integral part of the “It was pleasing to see a truly cohesive evolution of cross-class sustainment within team manage the challenges of COVID with MCPSPO and we’re up for the challenge of minimal impact to the project schedule,” integrating this model with Plan Galileo,” Cutts says. Cutts says. Coras has also been supporting Maritime Each of these previous experiences has Systems Division (MSD) as a member of served to prepare the Coras team for their role Team Downer MSP within Maritime Cross in supporting MSD’s implementation of Plan Platform SPO (MCPSPO). This support Galileo, which aims to deliver the capability to spans across engineering, sustainment and sustain the Royal Australian Navy’s growing commercial activities with the ultimate fleet to ensure it can fight and win at sea. goal of efficiently delivering materiel to The multibillion-dollar regeneration the warfighter. of Australia’s key naval capabilities is a “Achievements within MCPSPO over the complex, long-term national endeavour last few years are a true indication of the that requires investment in sustainment

Maritime Special Edition 46 www.defenceconnect.com.au “IT’S AN EXCITING TIME TO BE INVOLVED WITH THE GROWTH IN AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE INDUSTRY. INTERESTING WORK WITH GREAT CLIENTS IS VERY ATTRACTIVE TO PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYEES”

Cutts tells Defence Connect, “Coras is excited by the challenge of transitioning the unprecedented shipbuilding program into the maritime sustainment environment and a program-level approach such as Plan Galileo is crucial to achieving this. “While the skills and resource shortage in acquisition and build is well publicised, as all these vessels are delivered the skills shortage will move to sustainment. Coras views any potential efficiency we can drive within maritime sustainment as an opportunity to reduce the total workforce requirement in the future. “Ideally, Plan Galileo will lay the platform for this change, encouraging data driven decision making and transparent life cycle costing. At Coras, our goal is to deliver measurable benefits to the business areas we consult to and ultimately deliver solutions that are not reliant on continual PSP support. We like to see our clients’ business sustain our [L-R] Coras Solutions managing director Phil Cutts, changes organically long after we have left general manager Brett Rylance and manager Sean Payne at the 2019 Defence Connect Australian their business.” Defence Industry Awards Expanding on this, Cutts stresses the importance of innovation in the consulting domain: “We are actively striving to increase the resource and skillset base within defence shipyards around the country to support our industry by attracting people from industries expanded fleet. outside of Defence. This ‘non-Defence’ Further planning and redevelopment thinking combined with seasoned Defence is needed and now is the perfect time to experience ensures the Coras team are always transform maritime sustainment. Plan Galileo ‘thinking new’. views sustainment as a whole-of-life concept, “We have also established an Employee Share considering sustainment needs at the design Program, where all team members are offered stage of a vessel. equity in the business at no cost to them. It considers capability life cycle management It’s a long-term incentive where we reward from the outset as an underlying principle performance and achievement for our clients.” of continuous sustainment, underpinned by Coras’ innovative approach to consulting has the need to support a seamless transition seen the SME succeed in a big four-dominated from acquisition to sustainment. Plan Galileo environment, rapidly growing across three reworks Navy’s support solution to one that states while maintaining a portfolio of exciting adopts a fleet view, which drives commonality projects. We’re excited to see what the future across sustainment and minimises duplication holds for the young Australian company as across the maritime domain. Defence continues to bolster its capabilities.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 47 Maritime Special Edition Navy Autonomous Systems

COMBINING TECHNOLOGY, PRIME KNOW-HOW AND LOCAL MANUFACTURING TO GIVE NAVY A CUTTING-EDGE MINE HUNTING CAPABILITY Technology advancements in recent years have created opportunities for the global mine warfare community to revolutionise mine hunting and mine sweeping – this technology will enhance the Royal Australian Navy’s capabilities and minimise harm to crews

BY STEPHEN KUPER

o longer are navies constrained to The system demonstrated the ability to employing crewed ships operating perform high-speed mine hunting operations N inside the threat area to find and all remotely controlled and in real time, neutralise underwater mines. which illustrated the system’s ability to both Today, this can be done at much higher speed the mine clearance timeline as well as speeds through the use of remotely controlled keep sailors out of harm’s way. The system unmanned systems from safe stand-off returned to Australia for the Dugong mine distances outside the mine danger area. warfare exercise at HMAS Stirling in late 2019. One of these revolutionary systems is the The AQS-24 system was originally developed Northrop Grumman AQS-24 towed mine to operate from large helicopters, like the USN hunting sensor operated from an 11-metre MH-53E and the Japanese MCH-101. unmanned surface vessel (USV). The system was designed for the harsh The AQS-24 system combines a state- rotary wing environment. That robustness of-the-art, high-speed synthetic aperture translates to highly reliable operation from sonar (SAS) with an optical laser line scanner the significantly less taxing USV. The system to detect, localise, classify and identify operates over a wide speed range, 6 to 18 underwater mines in a single sortie. Once knots, affording the operator a great deal the AQS-24 mission is complete, only mine of flexibility in how to handle unforeseen neutralisation remains. obstacles or events. The AQS-24 system, which is the The AQS-24 system, and its predecessor, operational mine hunting system employed the AQS-14, have amassed over 20,000 by both the US and Japanese navies, was first operational hours in real-world mine operated in Australian waters as part of the conflicts, including the Red Sea, Suez 2018 Autonomous Warrior exercise in Jervis Canal, Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Bay, NSW. Freedom, as well as thousands of hours in

Maritime Special Edition 48 www.defenceconnect.com.au Northrop Grumman’s AQS-24b towing mine hunting sensor

humanitarian assistance efforts, including control of that asset to an LHD operating the search for lost arsenic containers off the in the area could provide the RAN with coast of the US, downed aircraft recovery tremendous operational flexibility. (TWA flight 800), and support during the Northrop Grumman has significantly Hurricane Katrina crisis in New Orleans. expanded its presence in Australia over Though the offering for the RAN the last five years, and as more Northrop leverages the maturity, interoperability and Grumman systems are introduced into commonality available from using the same the Australian Defence Force, the ability equipment as the US and Japanese navies, to efficiently support and sustain those Northrop Grumman is working with a capabilities has grown as well and has been number of Australian partners to introduce a primary focus for the corporation. specific technologies that would best Northrop Grumman embraces a whole-of- support RAN employment of the system. life approach to the delivery of capability, One of these upgrades involves the which facilitates the development of incorporation of an acoustic tracking industry capability in Australia from build capability that will allow for highly precise through to sustainment. target localisation at the high speeds the To this end, Northrop Grumman has AQS-24 system can operate at. teamed with nearly a dozen Australian Others include extended range RF businesses to build the AQS-24B payload communications and the ability to transfer in Australia, ensuring appropriately skilled control of the unmanned asset between workforce, infrastructure and technology different surface ship platforms. exist to build, test and assure operationally The concept of being able to operationally ready and sustainable capability for Navy. deploy the USV with the AQS-24 system Importantly, final assembly, test, delivery from a SEA 1905 platform and then transfer and sustainment will be conducted in NSW,

www.defenceconnect.com.au 49 Maritime Special Edition Navy Autonomous Systems

“THE AQS-24 SYSTEM, AND ITS PREDECESSOR, THE AQS-14, HAVE AMASSED OVER 20,000 OPERATIONAL HOURS IN REAL WORLD MINE CONFLICTS, INCLUDING THE RED SEA, SUEZ CANAL, OPERATIONS DESERT STORM AND IRAQI FREEDOM” within short driving distance to RAN’s Mine tremendous commitment to Australia’s Warfare Forces at HMAS Waterhen. need to be independent of long supply lines. Northrop Grumman Australia chief Northrop Grumman is contracting with executive Chris Deeble stated, “Northrop state-of-the-art Australian manufacturers Grumman Australia is ready to work to ensure high availability and quality, and alongside our US counterparts to introduce they have made those industries part of their the AQS-24 into Australia in the most global supply chain, providing access to efficient and cost-effective manner, and to exports worldwide.” provide the Australian-specific engineering The USV/AQS-24 combination provides and sustainment to ensure success.” the RAN with high-speed, single sortie Consistent with this approach, Northrop mine detection, localisation, classification Grumman has expanded its partnership and identification in a remote-controlled with Electrotech Australia, which has been configuration that enhances the safety of Navy Northrop Grumman’s post-delivery support personnel, operating outside the mine threat partner in Australia for nearly two decades, to area, and provides multi-platform connectivity be the final assembly point for the AQS-24. and control in the maritime domain. This will position Electrotech, which has Northrop Grumman’s approach to providing facilities at nearly every Australian Navy the AQS-24 to the RAN enhances Australian port, to best support the AQS-24 once the industry capability and leverages partnerships system is delivered to the RAN to minimise that enable through-life support that best support costs and downtime, and to supports the RAN’s operational needs. These maximise system availability. autonomous platforms truly provide the best Stephen Renkert, CEO of Electrotech, of both worlds for Australia’s challenging and commented, “The AQS-24 AIC plan shows expansive operational environment.

Maritime Special Edition 50 www.defenceconnect.com.au Interview

LEVERAGING INTERNATIONAL MARITIME SUPPORT TO UNDERPIN NAVY’S MODERNISATION Navy is undergoing its largest ever peacetime modernisation and expansion of capabilities from surface warships and submarines to unmanned systems and helicopters, keeping the fleet lethal, survivable and ready to win at sea

BY STEPHEN KUPER

avantia enjoys almost complete Navantia Australia managing director brand dominance over the Royal Alfonso Garcia-Valdes explains to Defence N Australian Navy fleet of the early Connect, “For Navantia Australia, the shift 21st century, platforms like the Canberra, from the build phase to the sustainment Hobart and Supply Class vessels will serve and modernisation phase is a big change as the backbone of the fleet and Australia’s and is challenging. maritime capabilities for decades to come. “Our parent company Navantia has While these three classes of vessels already successfully demonstrated this come at a time when the Navy, Australia’s through our role in sustainment of the shipbuilding capacity and the global balance Spanish Navy, sister ships of Australian of power are in a state of flux, the local vessels designed by Navantia. It has further and international expertise developed done this some seven years ago sustaining by Navantia establishes the company as three US Navy Arleigh Burke Class premier fundamental input to capability for destroyers of its sixth fleet (C6F) operating the future fleet. at the Mediterranean influence area.” The company has leveraged the Garcia-Valdes adds, “It is also true that international reach of the business, every time I am asked this question for particularly its relationships in support of the Australian case, I usually answer by the Spanish Navy and the role the company asking ‘what is the sustainability model has played in supporting US Navy Arleigh that Navantia should follow, what mirror of Burke Class destroyers to establish a model another successful company in this sector it believes will provide immense opportunity should we look at?’ The answer is always in Australia. prudent silence.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 51 Maritime Special Edition Interview

Leading Seaman Aviation Support Trent Gomm directs an MRH-90 Taipan helicopter to depart from the flight deck of HMAS Adelaide Source: Department of Defence

Maritime Special Edition 52 www.defenceconnect.com.au “This, for us, is more than a problem, it is an opportunity. Everything can be done, the “PLAN GALILEO IS PROVIDING room for improvements in processes, people THE PLATFORM FOR TRADITIONAL and tools are huge, and the way forward to DEFENCE SUPPLIERS TO BE TO BE achieve it seems obvious. We plan to bring efficiencies and best practices to the way CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE” sustainment is performed in Australia.” While ‘Plan Pelorus’ is the Navy’s widely recognised strategy for developing future capability through the multibillion-dollar, development and support function as a key generational naval shipbuilding program, it partner to the Royal Australian Navy. “Plan Galileo is providing the platform is the Chief of Navy’s intent to implement a for traditional Defence suppliers to be to Navy Industry Engagement Strategy, one that be creative and innovative. With Navantia directly supports Plan Pelorus. Australia being part of a global legacy that This will provide an ideal opportunity not only builds capability, but as part of an to regenerate, refocus and ultimately exciting recognition of our hard work and strengthen Navy’s relationship with capability, we have been rewarded with industry and academia. This strategy makes the opportunity to sustain naval capability it clear that the Chief of Navy is focused as well. on providing a clear direction of the Royal “As such, Navantia Australia is best placed Australian Navy, and what its materiel needs to engage in strategic initiatives to support a and obligations will be in the future. national Australian approach to ensure agile, The Chief of Navy wants industry and smart and integrated management of assets academia to understand that what they are across the whole product (and program) producing, no matter how big or how small, life cycle. contributes to the bigger picture of Navy’s “Navantia Australia’s performance addresses capability, and our national interest. the question ‘why just build a ship; when we Together, the naval enterprise, industry can provide expertise, knowledge, respect for and academia have an unprecedented the product and innovative asset and platform opportunity to contribute to nation-building management and sustainment models to and, in doing so, build a maritime capability manage it effectively as well?’” that will underpin the long-term security Garcia-Valdes adds, “Plan Galileo forms and prosperity of Australia and the region. the framework by which Navantia Australia Supporting ‘Plan Pelorus’ as a hand-in- will work to transform maritime sustainment glove approach is ‘Plan Galileo’, which is locally, whilst also utilising our global reach, Navy’s premier strategy for ensuring the as well, in consideration of our position as modernisation and sustainable capability capability builder and sustainment experts.” of the fleet and its platforms as more units The capability definition, design and become operational. acquisition process is part of the equation for Garcia-Valdes explains Navantia Australia’s ensuring that the RAN is capable of executing plan to draw on its experience and role in its mission of fighting and winning at sea supporting key naval capabilities, telling when government requires. Defence Connect, “Being central service A critical component of the capability and provider to the provision of almost 110,000+ platform acquisition and development cycle tonnes of displacement in the Royal Australia is often the one that is most overlooked; the Navy, Navantia Australia will use its position, maintenance and sustainment component experience, core values and ideals to move to of the defence life cycle remains critical, a more agile, customer-focused sustainment particularly as the Navy embarks on its record model that reflects the core of Plan Galileo. period of modernisation and recapitalisation. “Navantia Australia is best placed to guide, For Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm, Head direct and participate in sustainment that is of Maritime Systems within the Capability flexible and adaptable; with configuration Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), management centre to our considerations in the role of maintenance and sustainment is developing a single end-to-end capability equally important.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 53 Maritime Special Edition Interview

“I have a saying within the team, that is ‘shipbuilding is sexy, but sustainment pays the bills’, that is that it is critical we make the right acquisition decisions, but once that is delivered to the fleet, it is equally important that we invest in the training, the infrastructure, the people and capacity to sustain and maintain the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet and capabilities,” RADM Malcolm tells Defence Connect. Garcia-Valdes adds, “However, ‘ensuring’ the above is one element of our approach – Navantia Australia is working to ‘assure’ its transition to a model of sustainment and modernisation, thus moving away from traditional sustainment models and aligning with Defence’s objectives. “This is to be achieved by finding and implement ‘smart’ and innovative ways to grow Navantia Australia business; create and find ways to gain efficiencies within Navantia Australia through the assessment and reconfiguration of internal systems and processes; and also embed a culture and profile that placed asset management as the cornerstone of our activities within an integrated management system that is effectively governed an led by Navantia Australia senior management. “Navantia Australia will look to Plan Galileo to be the totem by which we will begin to lead consultation and interaction with the CoA and industry; finding ways to gain and share knowledge and insights; provide a forum for ‘free thinking’ and disciplined innovation and a culture of value added documentation support taking advantage of management in all aspects of our business. the amount of works already undertaken to “Navantia Australia will position itself minimise design impact risks to suit the new as an SME on asset management, smart Baseline 9 in our SEA 5000 offer during the sustainment and program management tender campaign. utilising our extraordinary human resources “Since 2019, Navantia Australia has and our technical knowledge to be a operated under subcontract to NSM Australia leader championing collaboration in the for provision of engineering services to maritime space.” the ACPCSPO for sustainment of the LHDs Navantia Australia is already exemplifying and LLCs. Under this subcontract, Navantia this approach to supporting the fleet, Australia has completed numerous design and through ongoing support for the Canberra system upgrade projects, including upgrades and Hobart classes, as both vessels undergo to the aviation lighting system, bow thruster a battery of modernisation programs and control system, IPMS software upgrades, capability improvements. medical centre upgrades, CCTV system Garcia-Valdes adds, “Navantia Australia is integration on the LLCs, and propulsion hopeful of playing a major role in the DDG system modifications for the LHDs.” AEGIS Baseline 9 program with platform Expanding on this, Garcia-Valdes explains system integration and ILS technical to Defence Connect, “Navantia Australia

Maritime Special Edition 54 www.defenceconnect.com.au The crew of HMAS Sydney ‘cheer ship’ inside Jervis Bay, NSW, following the ship’s commissioning ceremony at sea Source: Department of Defence

“MY VISION IS FOR NAVY, INDUSTRY AND ACADEMIA TO BECOME BETTER PARTNERS THAT FOCUS ON TRANSFORMATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS AND SHARED AWARENESS TO ENABLE THE BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOMES FOR AUSTRALIA” has successfully completed a major product focus on transformational relationships improvement for the LHD LLCs to remove and shared awareness to enable the best cargo weight restrictions, permitting the possible outcomes for Australia.” transport of the M1A1 Abrams battle tank.” Garcia-Valdes builds on VADM Noonan’s Plan Galileo will serve as the premier vision, stating, “Plan Galileo simply opportunity for Navantia Australia to leverage embeds quite succinctly the important role its local and international expertise and Navantia Australia plays in both DDG and experience, ensuring that Navy is capable of LHD projects. fulfilling Chief of Navy’s priorities for both “It is not enough to claim ‘we built Plan Pelorus and Plan Galileo. the ship and therefore we must be Chief of the Royal Australian Navy, Vice involved’ – our behaviour, role, attitude Admiral Michael Noonan, explaining the and engagement with selected primes, launch of Plan Pelorus at Pacific 2019 said, contractors, CoA and industry in these “Without industry we don’t go to sea, we projects highlight our intent to support one don’t fly our aircraft, and ultimately we of the main initiatives and goals of Galileo are unable to defend Australia and our – primes, small businesses, industry, national interests. contractors etc working together to provide “My vision is for Navy, industry and an integrated and consistent solution to academia to become better partners that naval configuration and sustainment.”

www.defenceconnect.com.au 55 Maritime Special Edition Interview

BUILDING ON FOUR DECADES OF DELIVERING FOR NAVY WITH AN EYE ON THE FUTURE Rohde & Schwarz has supported the Royal Australian Navy for 40 years, but they’re not resting on this pedigree – the company has its eyes firmly set on supporting the Navy’s future capabilities

BY STEPHEN KUPER

s a company, Rohde & Schwarz has as a systems integrator and its sustainment been delivering communications capabilities are often overlooked – something A capability in the maritime domain the company is seeking to change. in Australia for 40 years, including radios Gareth Evans, managing director of and antennas for the majority of the surface Rohde & Schwarz Australia, explains to fleet, including intercoms systems for Defence Connect, “In most cases we have Collins Class and, more recently, the external successfully worked through a prime communications for Navy’s newest vessels, so few people understand the level of the Hobart Class guided missile destroyers. investment and commitment from Rohde A core component of Rohde & Schwarz’s & Schwarz. They know what we make, but offering to Navy is its focus on developing they don’t know about our integration and and delivering a true, local, sustainable sustainment capabilities. sovereign defence industry capability and “We are now leaning forward into the has used its long-standing relationship Navy space here and in New Zealand and with the RAN (and other navies) to we are confident in doing this because, develop a scalable suite of integrated as a communications OEM, we have communications solutions for the fleet. comprehensive knowledge of the Rohde However, while the company’s individual & Schwarz product suite, local capability products are widely recognised, its capacity as a communications systems integrator

Maritime Special Edition 56 www.defenceconnect.com.au Photographer: ABIS Kieren Whiteley Source: images.navy.gov.au | S20191192

www.defenceconnect.com.au 57 Maritime Special Edition Interview

Photographer: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko Source: images.navy.gov.au | S20163228

and understanding of the clear technical developing the reference ship design for superiority of our solutions.” Hunter (SEA 5000). Currently, Rohde & Schwarz is engaged “We are well equipped for the technology with supporting a range of Navy capability transfer inherent in that project with great acquisition, sustainment and modernisation facilities and a very impressive workforce.” programs, including: Rohde & Schwarz Australia has a long- Planned for Austal to use NAVICS (naval term strategy to maintain a strong, viable integrated communications system) on the local presence and increase market share Cape Class patrol boats they are contracted in all business fields. The company is by Navy to deliver starting in 2021; committed to providing in-country support Variants of NAVICS have been offered for most of the products delivered into the for support vessels and major surface Australian market. combatants demonstrating the scalability To achieve this, the company of its NAVICS solution; and continuously invests in equipment for The $35 billion SEA 5000 Hunter Class repair and calibration, logistics, in-service frigate acquisition program. support and evaluation. The company, which sports a local Evans explains the role Rohde & Schwarz team of more than 60 experts, is focused is playing in SEA 5000, telling Defence on providing a high level of technical Connect, “We are the communications competence and experience in pre- and systems integrator for the UK Type 26 post-sales support and outstanding quality frigates and we are on an IPT with ASC for in service repair and calibration.

Maritime Special Edition 58 www.defenceconnect.com.au “WE ARE WELL PLACED TO ASSIST THE ADF IN ALL DOMAINS WITH ELECTRONIC WARFARE, LAND TACTICAL COMMUNICATIONS, HF WIDEBAND AND SUSTAINABILITY FOR ALL OF OUR SYSTEMS”

bidding with Babcock for the similar project in Australia. “We are well placed to assist the ADF in all domains with electronic warfare, land tactical communications, HF wideband and sustainability for all of our systems. “As the ADF focuses more on EMSO (electro-magnetic spectrum operations) they are learning that we are experts in that domain and can help them with most of their solutions and activities throughout the capability life cycle.” This unique capability has resulted in Rohde & Schwarz Australia becoming a sovereign design authority for the Australian Defence Force, which also focuses on expanding Australia’s capacity to serve as a global defence exporter drawing on the company’s growing success in exporting capability to regional allied navies, including New Zealand, the Philippines, Malaysia and a growing focus on the Middle East. Rohde & Schwarz is committed to strengthening customers’ digital Evans adds, “We have a growing and sovereignty and giving them the greatest dynamic workforce and are successfully possible independence from manufacturers. recruiting in this current tight labour market The prerequisite for digital sovereignty is because we are offering really interesting technological independence. Technological work for engineers. independence is a core value for Rohde & “Engineers and technicians get to work Schwarz and is a vital part of what it offers on projects as diverse as HMAS Choules, to the RAN and its industrial partners. Cape Class patrol boats as well as air-traffic Today’s military missions are typically control voice communications projects in based on a combination of joint and New Zealand, Australia and for the RAAF multinational operations. A key to success is with the transportable air operations towers achieving information superiority through and OneSky/CMATS. network-centric operations. Effectiveness “The VCS4G system we sometimes use for and survivability depend on this. ATC communications is a ‘sister’ technology Rohde & Schwarz supplies interoperable to NAVICS.” and secure communications networks This is a key component of the company’s for the Navy, Army and Air Force, and expansion into supporting the ADF’s pursuit has decades of experience in naval of leading-edge HF and electro-magnetic communications solutions. spectrum capabilities. As a system integrator, the company Evans tells Defence Connect, “We have provides single-source communications been announced as working with Babcock and encryption solutions for modern on the HF wideband project in NZ and as naval applications.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 59 Maritime Special Edition Interview

Maritime Special Edition 60 www.defenceconnect.com.au LEVERAGING EXPERIENCE WITH THE RAAF TO SUPPORT NAVY’S EVOLVING MISSION AND CAPABILITIES HENSOLDT Australia is using experience, skills and expertise developed through work with the Royal Australian Air Force to support some of the Royal Australian Navy’s key capabilities and force multipliers

BY STEPHEN KUPER

s part of its global expansion focus in HENSOLDT Australia was established in the Asia-Pacific, HENSOLDT Australia October 2019 with the acquisition of a radar A is drawing on its experience, skills services company. This has given us the local and leading-edge, locally developed capability technical capability for radar performance and collaborative relationship with the Royal services to the RAAF.” Australian Air Force to expand its support to Building on this experience and relationship the Royal Australian Navy. with the RAAF, HENSOLDT is shifting gear Globally, HENSOLDT is recognised as a to focus on supporting the Royal Australian leading global supplier for sea, air and land- Navy across a range of key modernisation and based platforms of the armed and security upgrade programs, including a firm goal of forces worldwide – with portfolios across supporting the replacement and upgrade of the a number of sectors, including sensor and Collins Class optronics mast system (OMS). radar technologies, supporting air, sea, land With the Australian government and Navy and space missions. both committing to a modernisation and Nathan Manzi, head of HENSOLDT Asia upgrade program for the Collins Class fleet, Pacific, explains the importance of this HENSOLDT is offering the company’s local global pedigree, but also the foundational experience and relationships to offer Navy a relationship with the RAAF, telling Defence cutting-edge capability for the Collins Class. Connect, “While HENSOLDT is still a “This includes expanding the maritime relatively new company following its electronic warfare and detection capabilities departure from Airbus in 2018, in Australia, available to the Australian Navy, one of the

www.defenceconnect.com.au 61 Maritime Special Edition Interview

key programs we’re focused on is the Collins and a full panoramic view can be displayed Class upgrade program, particularly with our in less than 10 seconds, contributing to OMS 150 optronics mast,” Manzi explains. the situational awareness of the surface The OMS 150 is the latest enhanced new operational environment. sensor system in the proven design of the Manzi adds, “There is a definite OMS 100 family. It integrates the latest in opportunity for the RAN to get ahead of camera development to include short-wave the existing and emerging challenges in infrared (SWIR) capability. this space, and unlike the alternatives, OMS 150 comprises of a unique combination HENSOLDT can provide today that leading- of high-definition (HDTV), low light level TV edge capability to Australia’s Collins (LLLTV) and SWIR sensors, aligned in a single Class fleet.” objective lens design, all on the same line of Collins is just a small part of HENSOLDT’s sight, realising a true all-light, all-weather maritime ambitions, with the proliferation visual capability. of military and civilian unmanned aerial In order to minimise the exposure time of systems and the threats posed to large the mast, a Quick Look Round (QLR) of 360° capital ships another key opportunity for can be conducted in less than three seconds HENSOLDT to solve.

Maritime Special Edition 62 www.defenceconnect.com.au “THE XPELLER SUITE OF PRODUCTS CAN BE TAILORED TO THE RAN PLATFORM AND THE THREAT PROFILE, AND PROVIDE FORCE AND ASSET PROTECTION WHEN IN A FOREIGN PORT”

threats can then be countered with by the application of an appropriate countermeasure suited to the operating environment. Manzi adds, “We believe that there is a growing market for force protection assets for HENSOLDT’s counter-UAV capabilities, particularly as Australia’s high-profile, expensive capital ships enter into foreign ports. “The Xpeller suite of products can be tailored to the RAN platform and the threat profile, and provide force and asset protection when in a foreign port when RAN’s ships and personnel have less control of their environment compared [with] when in port in Australia.” HENSOLDT Australia is responsible for the design, supply, installation, repair and support of integrated system solutions and professional services in relation to the supply, installation, repair, support, testing, calibration, replacement, improvement and sustainment of HENSOLDT products and surveillance sensor systems across civil and military domains. HENSOLDT Australia is able to provide support to its wide range of products, which in turn, provides enhanced services and support for all its regional customers. It is headquartered in Canberra and currently employs more than 25 highly trained staff. HENSOLDT Australia was fortunate enough to make the short list of the HENSOLDT’s Xpeller solutions enable 2020 Prime Minister’s Veteran’s Employment sensitive sites, like Defence sites, airports, Awards - Small. sports stadiums or industrial operations to HENSOLDT maintains longstanding business tailor solutions, against these drone threats, relations, delivering radars, electronic warfare to their exact requirements and to avoid the systems, electro-optronic devices and air risks to personnel and property associated traffic control equipment to customers in the with a simple ‘hard-kill’ approach. APAC region. Xpeller is a suite of solutions and can be HENSOLDT is a global pioneer of technology adjusted based on the scenario, typically it and innovation in the area of defence and includes radar for detection, high-resolution security electronics. Headquartered in Munich, day and night-vision cameras to identify and the company is a market leader in civilian and classify, radio frequency direction finders military sensor solutions. to support classification and the solution is It develops new products to counter evolving pulled together with command and control threats based on disruptive concepts in such software, enabling tracking and prioritising fields as big data, robotics and cyber security. based on the threat level posed regardless of With more than 5,500 employees, HENSOLDT it being in the air, ground or water. Serious generated revenues of €1.14 billion in 2019.

www.defenceconnect.com.au 63 Maritime Special Edition