Rohde & Schwarz reaches major Hunter frigate communications milestone

Awarded the contract in 2024, Rohde & Schwarz Australia is supplying its advanced NAVICS integrated communications system for the first three Hunter Class frigates. The system will serve as the communications backbone of the vessels, providing secure voice and data connectivity while managing classified information across multiple security domains.

Designed with a fully digital Voice-over-IP architecture, NAVICS integrates radios, broadcast systems, intercoms and other IP-enabled subsystems into a single scalable communications environment, enhancing operational effectiveness while simplifying future capability upgrades.

The milestone follows close collaboration between Rohde & Schwarz Australia, BAE Systems Maritime Australia and the Commonwealth throughout the design process.

Paul Chisholm, Rohde & Schwarz Australia head of programs (Navy), said the successful review reflected both the maturity of the design and the strength of the partnership supporting the program.

“The design deliverables were very well received and generated productive discussions with BAE Systems Maritime Australia and the Commonwealth as we prepare for the next phase of development,” Chisholm said.

“The achievement demonstrates our commitment to delivering on schedule while working closely with our partners to ensure seamless integration of the communications system aboard the Hunter Class frigates.”

VIEW ALL

The program will now progress towards the critical design review, representing another key step before manufacture and integration of the system.

To support delivery of the Hunter program, Rohde & Schwarz Australia has significantly expanded its local engineering workforce, with staffing already doubling as the company increases its sovereign capability to design, manufacture and support advanced naval communications systems in Australia.

Managing director Gareth Evans said the project highlighted the long-term partnership that has developed between the company, BAE Systems Maritime Australia and the Commonwealth.

“This is an important milestone in delivering our integrated communications capability for the Hunter Class frigates,” Evans said.

“The collaborative relationship we’ve established with BAE Systems Maritime Australia and Defence continues to be fundamental to achieving the best possible capability outcome for the Royal Australian Navy.”

BAE Systems Maritime Australia managing director David Shepherd said the Hunter program extended well beyond the construction of Australia’s next-generation anti-submarine warfare frigates.

“The Hunter program is also about rebuilding Australia’s sovereign naval shipbuilding capability,” Shepherd said.

“Working closely with Australian industry partners such as Rohde & Schwarz is central to delivering a continuous naval shipbuilding enterprise while developing the skilled workforce and industrial capability needed to support the fleet for decades to come.”

The Hunter Class program represents one of Australia’s largest and most complex defence acquisition projects, with the frigates set to become the Royal Australian Navy’s premier anti-submarine warfare surface combatants. Incorporating the latest combat systems, sensors and secure communications technologies, the vessels will provide a critical contribution to Australia’s future maritime deterrence and regional security posture.

Rohde & Schwarz has supplied advanced naval communications solutions to more than 40 navies worldwide, with the modular NAVICS system recognised for its scalability, cyber resilience and ability to integrate seamlessly across increasingly complex digital warship environments.

Stephen Kuper

Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.