The contract comes as the navy prepares to replace the Anzac class with a new fleet of surface combatants. Babcock and Saab will work with Defence to maintain the existing frigates through that transition, providing asset management, engineering and supply-chain services.
The two companies bring decades of experience supporting the ships from the Henderson maritime precinct in Western Australia. Both have been key members of the Warship Asset Management Agreement, with Babcock contributing detailed knowledge of the platform and Saab providing expertise in its combat system.
“We are delighted to be continuing our long-standing support for critical maritime sustainment for the Royal Australian Navy from Henderson, Western Australia, in partnership with Saab,” Babcock Australasia Acting Chief Executive Leah Grantham said. “Babcock is proud to deliver this vital work uplifting sovereign capability, creating local jobs, strengthening the economy and ensuring the Anzacs remain operational, seaworthy and ready to meet Australia’s defence needs now and into the future.”
Babcock also maintains Anzac-class frigates and other Royal Australian Navy vessels as Regional Maintenance Provider West. It has operated in Western Australia since 1991, contributes more than $250 million to the state annually and supports more than 850 full-time-equivalent jobs.
The company separately maintains the Royal New Zealand Navy’s entire fleet under its long-term partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force. That wider regional work adds to its experience managing naval assets throughout their service lives.
“This contract reflects the strength of our partnership with Babcock, bringing together complementary capabilities to deliver sovereign and future‑focused sustainment outcomes for the Royal Australian Navy,” Saab Australia Managing Director Andy Keough said. “Building on more than 35 years supporting Australia’s naval capability, Saab brings deep expertise in combat systems integration and sustainment, together with our role as the Australian Combat Management System (AusCMS) provider, to ensure the Navy’s frigate fleet remains ready to meet current and future demands.”
