Australia has reportedly shortlisted Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems of Germany as eligible to receive a contract to build 11 new ships under the General Purpose Frigate program.
According to Defense News, the Australian Financial Review was the first to report that the government has narrowed down the vendors to two, leaving out the three remaining contenders – Hanwha Ocean and Hyundai Heavy Industries from South Korea and Spanish state-owned Navantia.
When asked to comment, a spokesperson from the Australian Department of Defence confirmed only that progress has been made in the selection process.
Industry insiders say TKMS is more likely to be picked because Australia is already familiar with German-built vessels and due to the flexibility offered by its MEKO A-200 ships. TKMS’ modular ship design enables the installation of various technologies, including CEA radars and a Saab combat management system.
The $6.5 billion program was unveiled in February after the Albanese government disclosed plans to enhance the lethality of RAN’s surface combatant fleet.
Sources told ABC News that a final selection from the two warship designs is likely by 2025 but other reports say an announcement could be made within weeks.