BAE Systems Australia is working with small and medium enterprises to build local workforce capability to support the Hunter-class frigate program.
As part of its commitment to develop Australian Industry Capability, the company is taking part in “Targeted Tasks” in which participating SMEs are assigned specific work scopes that enable knowledge transfer.
The tasks may include large-scale metal casting and machining, inclusive manufacturing for non-typical persons, validating in-country shock testing and compliance with Lloyd’s Register.
“By partnering with small and medium enterprises right across Australia, we are uplifting the industrial capability of our entire country,” said Scott Robertson, head of supply chain for BAE Systems Australia.
“The Hunter-class frigates – being built here in Australia, by Australians – are providing jobs both directly and indirectly; from the heart of the build at Osborne Naval Shipyard, to our extensive supply chain we are always looking to maximize and grow.”
The Australian arm of BAE Systems is building Hunter warships for the Royal Australian Navy. The upcoming frigates are based on Type 26 Global Combat Ships that BAE is developing for the British Royal Navy.
The SMEs included in the program are high-technology company VEEM, engineering firm Taylor Brothers, electrical equipment supplier MyModular, scientific and engineering consultant Thornton Tomasetti and aluminum tank maker Allweld Manufacturing.