Ultra Maritime has won a key contract to supply torpedo defense technology for the Royal Australian Navy’s Hunter-class frigates, reinforcing the fleet’s future anti-submarine warfare capability. Awarded by BAE Systems Maritime Australia, the deal includes delivery of the Surface Ship Torpedo Defence (SSTD) system—an advanced towed array that detects and neutralizes incoming torpedoes. The SSTD uses a single line array and automatic alert functions to identify underwater threats while reducing false alarms and operator workload. The technology enhances the frigates’ ability to survive in contested maritime environments, aligning with Australia’s growing emphasis on undersea warfare resilience. The work will be carried out at Ultra Maritime’s Adelaide facility, integrating local manufacturing and engineering to strengthen sovereign defense production. The company’s involvement follows its earlier contribution to the Hunter-class sonar suite, having already supplied the 2150 Bow Sonar System for the same platform. Together, these systems form the frigates’ primary anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capability. The Hunter-class ships are being constructed by BAE Systems Maritime Australia at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia. Derived from the UK’s Type 26 design, each vessel will displace about 8,200 tonnes, measure 151 meters, and achieve speeds above 27 knots. They are equipped with Aegis-based combat systems, paired with Saab Australia’s interface, and will house up to 208 personnel, including flight crews. The program includes six ships and is part of Australia’s broader Continuous Naval Shipbuilding Plan, aimed at sustaining industrial capability and securing long-term maritime readiness. Ultra Maritime’s partnership with BAE Systems reinforces the country’s participation in the Global Combat Ship (GCS) network, ensuring interoperability with allied fleets in the UK, Canada, and Norway. The Hunter-class frigates, entering service in the early 2030s, will provide Australia with a next-generation ASW platform capable of defending sea lanes, supporting coalition operations, and enhancing deterrence across the Indo-Pacific.
