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Australia’s first AWD completes sea trials

Written by Nick Blenkey
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First Hobart class destroyer recently completed sea trials

APRIL 14, 2017 – GE reports that several milestones have been reached on Australia’s Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) shipbuilding program. The first of the three ships being built for the Royal Australian Navy, under the program, Hobart, successfully completed sea acceptance trials off the south coast of Australia and is scheduled to be delivered in June,

Each AWD features two GE LM2500 gas turbines configured in a COmbined Diesel Or Gas turbine (CODOG) arrangement with two diesel engines. The destroyers are based on the design developed by Navantia of Spain for the Spanish Navy’s F100 frigate program (Alvaro de Bazan class). GE LM2500s also power the RAN’s Adelaide and Anzac class frigates, and the two Landing Helicopter Dock ships – HMA Ships Canberra and Adelaide – both the largest ships ever built for the RAN.

“We are proud that GE engines power 100% of the RAN’s gas turbine fleet,” said Brien Bolsinger, GE’s Vice President, General Manager. “With extensive in-country engine support capabilities and outstanding reliability, GE’s marine gas turbine family is a low risk solution for navies globally and ideal for the RAN’s next-generation frigate program,” he added.

The GE LM2500-family includes the base LM2500 model (25 megawatts), LM2500+ (30 megawatts) and LM2500+G4 (35 megawatts) – a suite of engines to meet any mission profile. These gas turbines can be applied in a variety of propulsion configurations so naval architects have design flexibility. The LM2500 gas turbines were manufactured in Evendale, Ohio.

Through a separate multi-year agreement, GE provides the Australian Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group’s Maritime Cross-Platform Systems Program Office with depot level maintenance for the 16 LM2500 gas turbines that power Adelaide and Anzac class frigates. Depot level maintenance is performed by Air New Zealand Gas Turbines, an authorized LM2500 service center and longtime RAN service provider. GE also provides program management, on-site field service support, warehousing and inventory management including spare parts and inventory replenishment throughout the life of the contract. The agreement helps to ensure the RAN optimum fleet readiness and lower total cost of ownership.

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