The Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) lead Anzac-class frigate HMAS Anzac is set to undergo a Mid Life Capability Assurance Program (AMCAP) upgrade at BAE Systems Australia’s Henderson shipyard.

HMAS Anzac will join its sister warships HMAS Perth and HMAS Arunta as part of the AMCAP upgrade project.

The Anzac-class fleet upgrade is being undertaken by the Warship Asset Management Agreement (WAMA) Alliance to retain the vessels in service with the navy until they are replaced by the RAN’s Hunter-class frigates.

“The upgrade of the ANZAC fleet demonstrates the breadth and depth of work that BAE Systems Australia has done to date in the sustainment of the Anzac-class fleet.”

Under the AMCAP upgrade, HMAS Anzac will be integrated with modernised ventilation systems, new sewage systems, and improved diesel engines that would help increase the vessel’s power and efficiency.

The frigate will also undergo a replacement of the air search radar capability with the Australian CEA L-Band radar, along with the replacement of the full communications suite on the vessel.



BAE Systems Australia chief executive Gabby Costigan said: “The upgrade of the ANZAC fleet, through our role in the WAMA alliance, demonstrates the breadth and depth of work that BAE Systems Australia has done to date in the sustainment of the Anzac-class fleet over more than two decades.”

HMAS Arunta will be undocked by the end of the year after more than 12 months out of service.

It will then set sail to carry out sea trials before its planned return to service, which is slated for next year.

The remaining seven Anzac-class frigates are scheduled to be back in service with the Australian Navy by 2023.

Australian company CEA Technologies has been selected to develop and deliver the new Air Search Radar System that would complement the vessel’s existing anti-ship missile defence system.