The facility marks a milestone in the delivery of the Australian Interface for the destroyers’ combat systems. Saab said the site will allow comprehensive testing of technologies before deployment on the Royal Australian Navy’s ships.
The Australian Interface is derived from the Royal Australian Navy’s Australian Combat Management System, which has been designed, developed and integrated domestically by Saab. The system is already deployed across the navy’s surface fleet and is intended to ensure consistency and interoperability.
The interface integrates radars, electronic warfare systems and underwater sensors and effectors into the Aegis Combat Management System. Saab said this integration is aimed at enhancing operational capability while maintaining compatibility with existing systems.
“The Hobart AI reference site enables system integration and testing ahead of installing this advanced combat system capability on the Hobart destroyers,” said Andy Keough, Managing Director of Saab Australia. “In partnership with the Commonwealth, Saab has developed a formidable sovereign capability underpinned by a talented engineering workforce and worldleading facilities. This can serve Australian needs beyond just the naval domain including possible application for land forces thereby maximising the national benefits from the investment.”
Saab stated that the Australian Interface will help ensure that Royal Australian Navy combat systems remain effective throughout the ships’ service life. The system is also intended to reduce reliance on external suppliers and allow Australia to introduce new capabilities independently.
The company said the approach offers operational and economic benefits, including reduced development costs and lower delivery risks across the fleet. It also provides a common operator experience, which Saab said contributes to improved efficiency and value for money.
As part of the Hobart-class upgrade programme, Saab is also supplying MultiFunction Consoles to operate the Australian Interface. The company is working in partnership with BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin through the Combat Systems Integration Integrated Project Team.
