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ISSUE 130
DECEMBER 2008
The most capable warships
in the Navy’s history set to
join the Fleet
Information Operations
Management in the RAN
The Vernon Parker Oration 2008
The Navy & the White Paper
A Cautionary Tale – Failures of
Japanese Air Power In WWII and
Lessons for Australian Maritime
Air Expansion
Finding The Lost Submarine:
Journal of the The Mystery of AE1
Shipyards: Australia and USA
Email: sales@austal.com Fax +61 8 9410 2564 Tel: +61 8 9410 1111
WWW.AUSTAL.COM
Issue 130 3
President’s Message Contents
2
008 has been an extremely busy the Institute and his active involvement
and, in my mind, successful year over the last 30 years at all levels was
The most capable warships in the Navy’s
for the ANI. We have conducted truly worthy of recognition with the
a number of very well attended events ANI’s highest honour.
history set to join the Fleet 4
including the Vernon Parker Oration, For the second year we hosted the
the ANI Warfare Seminar and the Sea ANI Warfare Seminar at HMAS Watson
patrol Cast visit to ADFA. which was followed by a reception. It
Information Operations Management in
We have seen membership rise by its was good to see the support of the
highest annual rate this decade, much event from the Naval Warfare Officers the RAN 15
of that due to our focus on engaging Association and the Naval Officers’
younger members through our efforts Club. The sixty guests were given a
at ADFA and through the two new essay range of presentations from Senior
competitions named after Commodores serving officers on a range of issues that
The Vernon Parker Oration 2008
Harry Adams (essay competition for the RAN is grappling with. There is no The Navy & the White Paper 19
Midshipmen and Sub Lieutenants) doubt that the Warfare Seminar has
and Alan ‘Rocker’ Robertson (for established itself as a key event in the
Lieutenants). These competitions ANI calendar.
have lifted the ANI’s profile and have I would like to thank the members A Cautionary Tale – Failures of Japanese
re-affirmed that our younger officers of your Council for their efforts this Air Power In WWII and Lessons for
have much to contribute to the year. Council has been active in
Australian Maritime Air Expansion 25
maritime debate that we strive so hard implementing a work programme to
to stimulate. Hopefully you will read a ensure that the key elements of the
good cross section of essays from these ANI Strategic Plan are put in place. I
competitions over the next 12 months am pleased to see an improved focus Finding The Lost Submarine: The Mystery
in Headmark – I would encourage you on governance and the development of
of AE1 34
to join the debate through either letters useful set of governance metrics which
to the editor or through your own I will expose to you at the next AGM
contribution. early next year. I would like to thank
There was no doubt that this Ernie Power for his continuing work on
Visions from the Vault 43
year’s Vernon Parker Oration was a the website and Tom Lewis for getting
real treat for those who were lucky the Journal together each quarter and
enough to be there. In this edition we keeping up to the quality we have come
have reproduced the address given by to expect. As always I need to mention Book Reviews 45
Professor the Honourable Kim Beazley. our business manager Jean Davitt for Front page:
He remains a most thoughtful strategic her unstinting support. HMAS Ballarat in
commentator and his words were My aim for next year is to maintain Milford Sound.
timely in this a White Paper year. Over the momentum we have built this year Style Notes for Headmark 48
100 people attended this year’s oration through our improved membership
and over 65 stayed on for the annual numbers, our busy events calendar and
dinner –a very successful evening. I hopefully a vigorous maritime debate.
am pleased to report that Rear Admiral I hope that all our members have a ANI Online Guide 49
James Goldrick, AM, CSC, RAN was peaceful and restful Christmas break. Issue Number 130
awarded Honorary Life membership of
Printed by Everbest
the Institute at the annual dinner. James Yours Aye, Printing Company
is of course no stranger to any of us in Davyd Thomas Australian Naval Institute Info 50
ISSN 1833-6531
ATI - AUSTAL - AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE CREDIT UNION
- BOOZ ALLEN & HAMILTON FRIEND - EDS - KBR - LOPAC ANI Membership Application Form 51 Design & DTP:
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Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
4
The most capable warships in the Navy’s
history set to join the Fleet
By Lee Cordner
The most capable warships in the build the number up to 16” with the
history of the Royal Australian Navy suggestion that “Anzac derivatives
(RAN) will soon be in service. But how could also replace the first four FFGs”.5
can that be with the first of the Hobart Prophetically, FSR 91 went on
Class Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD) to state: “the ADF has for some
more than five years away? Fortunately, time followed a program of mid-life
the Navy and the Nation will not have modernisations of the destroyer force
to wait that long before four very ... (which) without exception, have
capable surface combatants are again been lengthy. Reduced operational
operational in the Fleet. The upgraded availability, together with considerable
Adelaide Class FFGs are planned to capital expenditure, have been the
re-enter service as fully operational consequences of these programs. The
front-line warships over the next 12–18 concept of mid-life modernisations
months. They will bring what will in HMAS Sydney in homeport is not cost effective, and will not
– note the Mk 41 VLS
some respects be an advanced level continue.”6 When FSR 91 was
of combat capability unprecedented presented the DDG Modernisation
in the RAN. This article analyses Defence Policy and the FFG project was still underway, with
the Upgraded FFG, the capabilities Upgrade prospects of a limited return on
that it brings and the challenges and The FFG Upgrade Project reflects investment for those ships.
opportunities it presents for the Navy the outcomes of evolving, indecisive Notably in this context, the Anzac
and the Australian Defence Force Australian Defence policy making Class frigates were replacements for
(ADF). and relatively low levels of national the River Class destroyer escorts;
No analysis of the Upgraded FFG investment in Defence2 that have very much at the low end of the ADF
would be complete without first briefly marked the Australian experience over major surface combatant range of
reviewing the policy context that several decades.3 This has impacted capabilities. The chosen Meko 200 base
resulted in a decision to proceed with negatively on the development of the design would be unlikely to provide
an upgrade, and the FFG Upgrade surface combatant force along with the space and weight necessary for the
Project experience. Like most major other areas of Defence capability. significant capability enhancements
Defence projects the FFG Upgrade Procrastination followed by time required to replace the FFGs (and
Project (Project SEA 1390)1 had a and cost overruns has largely been the DDGs). In particular, evolving
long gestation period. Although the the characteristics of Defence air warfare (including Aegis phased
project is a capability upgrade to an procurement; characteristics that are array radar derivatives and long-range
existing platform rather than a new in many respects reflected in the FFG vertical launch air warfare missiles)
build, the time taken from concept to Upgrade Project experience. plus helicopter support capabilities and
the capability being fully operational In the 1987 Defence white paper potentially unmanned aerial vehicles
will be more than 15 years. The FFG the Government announced that (UAVs) in the future (the Anzac has
Upgrade Project has drawn attention the Navy would be expanded “…to a only one hanger) would be beyond
to many Defence policy and project force operating 16 to 17 major surface that which a Meko 200 platform could
management issues that will briefly combatants”.4 The 1991 Force Structure reasonably support.
be considered here. Whilst project, Review (FSR 91) recognised that the Not withstanding the FSR 91
contractual and audit difficulties surface combatant force was declining pronouncement, due to concerns about
have been aired in parliamentary in numbers (it was then down to platform and system supportability,
committees and the media, the 10 ships) and indicated a planning the FFG Upgrade Project was initiated
capability gains and advantages for intention to replace the DDGs with in 1993. A Surface Combatant Force
the total Naval force have not been as “an Anzac derivative” to “maintain the Study during 1993-96 concluded
well understood. This article seeks to continuity of Australian shipbuilding, that given evolving anti-ship missile
enhance that understanding. to achieve commonality … and to (ASM) and other threats, the FFGs
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
Issue 130 5
FFG and side number Launched Commissioned Original Life Upgraded Life planned life of type schedule.
HMAS Adelaide - 01 June 1978 November 1980 2008 Withdrawn from service Jan 08
HMAS Canberra - 02 December 1978 March 1981 2008 Withdrawn from service Nov 05 The FFG Upgrade Project
HMAS Sydney - 03 September 1980 January 1983 2010 2015 The FFG Upgrade Project began in
HMAS Darwin - 04 March 1982 July 1984 2012 2017 earnest when the RFT was released
HMAS Melbourne - 05 May 1989 February 1992 2019 2019 which led to ADI Ltd being selected
HMAS Newcastle - 06 February 1992 December 1993 2021 2021 as the prime contractor in 1998. The
Royal Australian contract to proceed was signed in
Navy - FFG Fleet also required an increase in capability; by “at least three air-defence capable 1999. The initial plan was for all six
Schedule Summary14 particularly improved self defence. A7
ships”. Upgrades to the FFGs plus the
9
FFGs to be upgraded and the Project
request for proposal (RFP) was released Anzacs were also identified to occur.10 includes the procurement of six ship
to industry in 1994 which led to a In 2007 Government policy recognised sets of equipment plus an FFG Warfare
request for tender (RFT) in 1997. that “Our Navy must be able to Systems Support Centre (WSSC),
By 1997 defence policy statements establish sea control and operate a Combat Team Trainer and three
indicated that 14 major surface freely within our region, while denying Operator Trainers.
combatants were considered an such freedoms to an opponent.” 11
The FFG Upgrade Project is
adequate number and the intention to Given the vast maritime geography more an end of life than a mid-life
substantially invest in “ASM defences and dependence upon the maritime modernisation. The prolonged concept
and other upgrades for the FFGs and domain for economic, environmental to upgrade timeline with attendant
Anzacs” was declared.8 By this time and territorial security for Australia project delays meant that the cost
the three DDGs were approaching and its region this bold defence policy effectiveness of upgrading the older
their end of life and were to be retired assertion appears entirely justified. ships could not be justified. In late
from service without replacement, Concomitantly, this policy statement 2003 the Government determined
significantly reducing the Navy’s air raises reasonable expectations that that Canberra and Adelaide would not
warfare (AW) capability. Australia would seek to acquire a be upgraded. They have since been
The question of surface combatant significant surface combatant fleet withdrawn from service.
numbers was left unanswered in the to operate in collaboration with The Project has proven to be
2000 Defence White Paper other than submarines and land-based air challenging and extremely complex.15
Mk 41 VLS being the (six) FFGs were to be replaced forces. While the acquisition of three The FFG Upgrade is one of the
embarked AWDs and upgrades to the Anzac most sophisticated and extensive
and Adelaide Class frigates were enhancements ever undertaken of a
mentioned, no mention was made modern surface combatant. It involves
of surface combatant numbers or major weapon, sensor, combat,
acquisitions beyond the AWDs. 12
and command and control systems
The ADF currently has 12 major upgrades along with significant
surface combatants (eight Anzac platform supportability work. The
Class and four FFGs). The Anzacs are system integration work is in some
shouldering the operational burden respects unique in the world with
which includes ongoing commitments the challenge of combining legacy
in the Persian Gulf while the FFGs are
13
systems from the original FFG
being upgraded. There is some overlap configuration (1970s technology) with
between when the AWDs are planned more advanced technologies drawn
to enter service during the period from a range of international sources.
2014-2017 and when the remaining In addition to the upgrade specific
FFGs are planned to be retired between activities many platform deficiencies
2015 and 2021, noting that there will and deep maintenance issues also had
typically be a considerable trials and to be rectified to ensure a planned
acceptance period beyond 2014 until 35 year hull life could be achieved.
the first AWD will be fully operational. Effectively this required the ships to
The table above outlines the FFG undergo major refits concurrent with
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
6
The most capable warships in the Navy’s history set to join the Fleet
the upgrade. Range Facility (PMRF) off Hawaii in
The complexity of the Project and October 2007 the combination of the
its implementation was no doubt upgraded air warfare (AW) package of
underestimated from the outset. Navy, improved sensors, vertical launched
Defence Capability Development Enhanced Sea Sparrow Missile
(DCD), Defence Material Organisation (ESSM) and ADACS successfully
(DMO) and the prime contractor, ADI dealt with multiple, simultaneous,
Ltd now trading as Thales Australia multi-directional live ASM attack
Ltd have been party to what became an (using realistic drone missile targets).
ongoing series of schedule slippages to This event included a successful live
the extent that the Project is now four ESSM engagement. Incorporation
and half years late (i.e. the first of the of the 32 cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch
Upgraded FFGs should have been in System (VLS) into the FFG hull is
operational service by 2004). Following a considerable naval architectural
an extensive negotiation between design feat which helps fulfil one of
DMO and the prime contractor a the key requirements for effective
Deed of Settlement and Release was ASM defence in the Upgraded FFG.
signed in 2006 that presented a revised The ADACS combat system has been
Sydney launches an
master schedule with Contract Final developed in Australia and is unique to and the improved capabilities the
ESSM
Acceptance due in December 2009. the Upgraded FFGs. upgrade offers. These internal to Navy
The extensive delays had resulted Given the operational environment perceptions will be difficult to rectify
in a project climate of frustration and of the Navy’s ongoing Middle East as the challenges are progressively
disappointment for all concerned. commitment a fully functioning, addressed and fully operational, high
The situation was exacerbated by a integrated ES capability has been performing systems are accepted
set to work and trials period plagued identified as the highest priority in to service. Further, the incoming
by systems interface and perceived outstanding requirement to support Labor Government has rightly put
performance shortcomings, with acceptance and deployment by the Defence on notice about poor project
several major systems initially failing Navy. Navy has understandably taken performance.17 No doubt the FFG
to meet acceptance criteria. The main a firm stand in demanding that the Upgrade Project stands out as one of
problem areas have been underwater Project demonstrate fully functional several troubled projects. The media,
warfare (UW), electronic surveillance operational capabilities. In early 2008 both nationally and internationally has
(ES) system, and the central Australian DMO, with strong support from and understandably been critical of the
Distributed Architecture Combat direct involvement of The Hon. Greg project18 and this in turn impacts on
System (ADACS), with Link 16 and Combet, Parliamentary Secretary for morale among people in the FFG Fleet.
other significant operational features Defence Procurement,16 established There are parallels here with
being progressively incorporated. an FFG ES Stakeholders Group. the situation that obtained when
Of late, more collaborative DMO- This group includes representatives the Collins Class submarines were
contractor approaches with a from all the major players including encountering problems during
sharper end capability focus have Navy, DMO, Thales and Rafael (the introduction to service. The overall
shown dividends, with substantial subcontractor for the C-Pearl system). result is that Navy (and Defence) is
progress on rectifying problem issues A number of significant people and faced with a crisis of confidence both
and demonstration of improved perception casualties have resulted internally and with Government,
performance. from the extensive Project delays and and this has significant implications
There have also been highly the failure of some systems to achieve for national security. The situation
successful and impressive results satisfactory results during initial must be resolved satisfactorily and
during the trials and introduction to acceptance trials. Within Navy the FFG expeditiously.
service period. For example, during Upgrade Project and the Upgraded Considerable progress is now being
ASM defence trials involving HMAS FFG has become known as a “lemon”. made due in no small part to a more
Sydney on the United States Navy’s Some FFG officers and sailors appear collaborative approach to solving
fully instrumented Pacific Missile to have lost confidence in the ships problems and dealing with challenges
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
Issue 130 7
3. Link 16
3. ES
complex project.
2. SRBOC MK 36 Mod 2. AN/SPS-55
Effective communication and
2. AN/SPS-49A(V)1
3. SRBOC Ready Service
2. MK 92 Mod 12 the creation of a cooperative and
2. MK 92 Mod 12 (Mod 2 upgraded to Mod
(Mod 2 upgraded to Mod collaborative environment between
1. MK 32 Mod 3. LRCR
2. CIW Torpedo
1. MK 13 GMLS all parties, focussed upon solving
3. Tactica MK41
3. ALBATRO 1. MK 75 Gun
problems, are essential from the outset.
There must be a clear focus by all
parties on the requirement to deliver a
functional capability to the customer
in a cost effective and timely way. The
LEGEND
1. Existing Unmodified Equipment
2. Existing Modified Equipment
3. Spherion
Sonar MF 3. PETRE customer must be closely engaged
Mine Avoidance
3. New Equipment Sonar
throughout.
Diagram Courtesy of generated through initiatives like the include:
Thales FFG ES Stakeholders Group. There Effective, comprehensive and The Upgraded FFG –
is now an atmosphere of cautious detailed project planning is essential. Capability Analysis
optimism that the Upgraded FFG Early planning shortfalls can have As indicated in the introductory
will “get across the line” and highly disproportionate downstream remarks, the Upgraded FFG presents
capable warships will soon be back in consequences. a higher level of combat capability
operational service. A brief overview Requirements and specifications than previously available in the RAN.
of key Project milestones achieved and must be well defined and agreed This may sound like a grand claim, but
planned is presented in the following before contract signature. The lack is backed by tangible evidence. The
table. of clearly defined specifications for following analysis will draw together
many of the FFG Upgrade Project and assess the key elements of the
Date Milestone requirements has meant that assessing FFG systems package that when fully
December 2006 Sydney Provisionally Accepted 1
contract compliance and operational operational and combined with a well
October 2007 Melbourne Provisionally Accepted performance against that specified has prepared, led and motivated ship’s
October 2007 Newcastle Commenced Upgrade proven to be extremely difficult. company, comprises an impressive
August 2008 Darwin Provisionally Accepted Lack of expertise to define naval combat capability. This analysis
November 2008 Sydney Acceptance2/Initial Operational Release3 requirements and manage and will look at the principal naval warfare
November 2008 Melbourne Acceptance/Initial Operational implement the project has proven to be areas in turn before drawing the total
Release
a significant and difficult matter for all assessment together, recognising that
November 2008 Darwin Acceptance/Initial Operational Release
parties: Navy, Defence, DMO and the the FFG is an integrated, multi-role
November 2008 Provisional Acceptance of WSSC
prime contractor. weapon system where components
November 2008 Acceptance of Upgraded Software
Careful consideration must be of the platform, the weapons systems
February 2009 Acceptance of Team Trainer
given from the outset to the systems and the combat system will contribute
June 2009 Newcastle Provisional Acceptance
integration implications of combining variously to multiple warfare
December 2009 Newcastle Acceptance/Initial Operational Release
legacy systems with more recent competencies.
December 2009 Contract final acceptance – completion of the
contract technologies.
Conducting an upgrade of an Air Warfare (AW)
existing capability concurrent with A primary aim of the FFG Upgrade
Key FFG Upgrade Project maintenance availability is a highly Project was to improve the AW
Milestones19 complex activity that requires careful capability generally and particularly
Many important lessons about the planning and close cooperation and defences against new generation ASMs,
management of complex defence collaboration in execution. including sea skimming missiles.
projects have been learnt (or re- The contract and schedule must The Upgraded FFG offers a more
learnt) during this extended and often be robust and achievable. There comprehensive and complete AW and
frustrating project experience. While must be thorough risk appraisals and ASM capability package than hitherto
it is beyond the scope of this paper to risk management processes in place available in the RAN. A classic layered
identify or analyse the project lessons particularly where significant technical, defence approach is adopted, involving
in any detail, some of the major lessons schedule and financial risks exist with a hard kill and soft kill capabilities. The
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
8
The most capable warships in the Navy’s history set to join the Fleet
key elements of the
layers are reviewed
below.
The outer layer of
hard kill comprises
fighter aircraft, whether
operated by the ADF
or coalition partners,
land-based or carrier
borne, and combined
with Airborne
Warning and Control
Systems (AWACS)
when available, plus
the surface to air
missile capabilities of
other RAN and allied
warships that may be
operating together. The
FFG’s ability to effectively integrate of an updated air surveillance radar, SPS 55 surface search radar) plus the Diagram Courtesy of
with US and NATO forces for example, the AN/SPS 49A(V)1, which provides two Mk 92 system fire control radars.
Thales
and to direct fighters is greatly a much improved ability to detect The outcome is the automatic detection
enhanced with the inclusion for the low altitude and small radar cross of targets, automatic correlation of
first time in the RAN of Tactical Digital section targets, and includes automatic multiple radar detections and accurate
Information Link (TADIL) J Link target detection, improved reliability prediction of target movement to the
16, added to TADIL B Link 11 and and other features. The operational Command team and weapons systems.
using the Joint Tactical Information performance of this radar has proven to The range of the Mk 92 CAS fire
Distribution System (JTIDS) for data be considerably better than the variant control channel is more than double
link communication. This capability it replaced and gives high confidence that of the earlier variants being now
effectively enables the FFG to direct the in the early detection of aircraft and more in line with that offered by the
prosecution of hostile aircraft, whether missile targets. Mk 92 STIR fire control channel. This
missile carriers, fighter bombers The AW fire control system has vastly improved and automated sensor
or surveillance aircraft hundreds been greatly enhanced with inclusion combination means that the reaction
of kilometres away. An enemy’s of the Mk 92 Mod 12 system, which time for detect, track, decision, fire
surveillance, target selection and is a further enhancement of the Mod control radar acquisition, to firing a
identification problem becomes vastly 6 system in service with US, Spanish weapon at a target is greatly reduced.
complicated by imposing an extended and Taiwanese FFGs. The Mod 12 This enables the engagement of
stand-off range; and hostile aircraft can system includes the same coherent multiple, multi-directional and quickly
be engaged before they can launch anti- receiver and transmitter (CORT) of the manoeuvring air and missile targets at a
ship weapons. It also presents a much Mod 6 variant plus improved signal much greater range from the FFG than
improved capacity for RAN integration processing, solid state electronics was previously possible. The capability
with US-led coalitions. and improved reliability over the was practically demonstrated during
The subsequent layers of AW Mod 6. Mk 92 system performance is the PMRF ESSM firings by Sydney
capability rely primarily on ship borne enhanced by inclusion of a new Radar mentioned earlier. The performance of
sensors and weapons although these Sensor Data Fusion System (SDFS), the upgraded Mk 92 system is reported
can also be cued with information from which provides a Radar Integrated to be “excellent”.20
other sources like AWACS or other Automatic Detection and Tracking The improved radar and weapon
ships via Link 16. The air surveillance (RAIDT) capability that combines data system performance is supported by a
capability of the FFG has been from all the ships search radars (AN/ vastly improved surface to air missile
considerably enhanced by inclusion SPS 49A(V)1, Mk 92 CAS search, AN/ capability. The GMLS 13 missile
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
Issue 130 9
launcher system has been retained authorised intervention in East Timor important for cuing hard kill weapons
with its potential to carry and launch in 1999, where a USN Aegis cruiser had and soft kill measures like Nulka as well
up to 40 missiles. The system will to be relied upon to provide effective as for target identification. The AN/
be upgraded so that SM 2 Medium air defence cover for the landing force, SLQ 32 ASM warner has been replaced
Range surface to air missiles can be will not be necessary in the future with the current generation Rafael
accommodated along with the older when an RAN FFG is available.22 C-Pearl digital combined electronic
SM 1 missiles and the latest variants ESSM missiles deployed from a surveillance and ASM warner system.
of the Harpoon surface to surface 32 cell Mk 41 VLS provide a highly The system covers the 0.5 – 18 GHz
missile. SM 2 missiles are reported to effective third layer of hard kill ASM frequency spectrum and is fully
be entering the ADF inventory in late defence. The performance of this integrated with the combat system.
2009.21 system, when combined with the The system has high sensitivity and
Inclusion of the SM 2 option Upgraded FFG radar and fire control a high data rate. Significant system
represents a major enhancement to the package, is reported to be excellent.23 integration, perceived performance
Navy’s AW capability with significant The ESSM capability offers ASM and human machine interface (HMI)
force multiplier implications. The SM defence redundancy not previously problems have been encountered
2 missile has a maximum range of available in the FFG because the GMLS during trials, which have resulted in
more than 80 nautical miles (nm) (150 13 launcher was potentially a single low confidence in the ES system among
km) compared with the SM 1 missile point of failure. some FFG personnel. As a result
maximum range of 25 nm (46 km) and In addition to the missile of the concerted and collaborative
the ESSM maximum range of around capabilities, a fourth layer of hard kill efforts of the FFG ES Stakeholders
10 nm (18 km). SM 2 and ESSM air defence is provided by the 76 mm Group numerous technical issues
missiles are also reported to have rapid firing gun. The gun effectiveness have been identified and resolved. The
much improved fusing arrangements has been significantly enhanced by Stakeholders are working to present an
and therefore effectiveness when integrating the existing Electro Optical operational ES system that will meet
engaging very low targets. This means Tracking System (EOTS) 2500 with the Navy’s requirements consistent with
that the surveillance, identification Mk 92 system. This capability includes the Acceptance timetable.
and targeting problem for hostile a laser range finder and enables an
aircraft seeking to attack or direct additional three dimensional gun Surface Warfare (SW)
an attack on a force at sea protected fire control channel to be integrated Many of the capabilities enhancements
by an Australian FFG has become a with the two radar directed channels touched upon in the AW analysis are
whole lot harder. Previously, when of fire. The fifth, last resort defensive also relevant to SW. The Harpoon
friendly fighter cover was not available, layer is the Phalanx 20 mm close in system has been upgraded so that
a hostile aircraft could loiter with weapon system (CIWS), which is now the latest variants of the missile can
impunity, conducting surveillance and integrated with the ADACS combat be deployed from the GMLS 13
launching weapons or directing attacks system providing a remote designation launcher. The SWG 1(A) Harpoon
from outside the FFG SM 1 missile capability. control panel has been installed in the
engagement zone (MEZ) of 25 nm or The inner layers of AW capability Operations Room. Harpoon remains
the Anzac MEZ of 10 nm. include the Australian designed and a very potent SW weapon with its 80
For the first time the RAN has developed Nulka offboard, active ASM nm (150 km) range, way points, anti-
a genuine ship borne surface to air decoy. Two additional Mk 137 Mod counter measures and terminal attack
missile-based area defence AW 1 decoy launchers able to deploy new features. A significant aspect of the
capability. This means that an FFG Seagnat RF decoys and Pirate IR and SW package is the ability to employ the
can offer effective cover for ships it acoustic decoys along with long range embarked Seahawk helicopter’s surface
is escorting as well as for itself; it can chaff rockets (for confusion) complete surveillance, targeting and data link
provide AW force protection over a the soft kill ASM (and anti-torpedo) capabilities to provide over the horizon
significant and moving geographic suite. targeting (OTHT) for Harpoon
area. With this capability entering An upgraded ES system is a major engagements. Other upgraded features,
the ADF inventory the circumstance component of the enhanced AW including the fully integrated EOTS
that obtained during the early stages capability; critical to sending an FFG in with laser range finding for the 76 mm
of the Australian-led, United Nations harms way. An effective ES capability is gun, add to a potent SW capability.
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
10
The most capable warships in the Navy’s history set to join the Fleet
A concerning aspect of Navy’s UW capability. The Seahawk employs reports from recent UW trials indicate
overall SW capability not directly a range of UW surveillance and that the combination of the HMS
applicable to the FFG Upgrade but localisation sensors including for and towed array passive and active
relevant to SW capability options that example passive and active sonobuoys capabilities are giving impressive
could be available for employment and high definition search radar, and submarine detection results.24 Also like
from the FFG and other RAN surface can deploy anti-submarine torpedoes. the ES system, significant HMI issues
combatants is the failure of the Super The Upgraded FFG integrates have been identified. The passive and
Seasprite Helicopter Program. This information via a discrete Seahawk active data from the HMS and towed
helicopter was originally procured to data link into the FFG combat system, array are presented in a single Sonar
be deployed from Anzac Class frigates which enables effective coordination Operator Console (SOC) which is
and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) and control of force UW efforts. The highly operator intensive. This entails
(the OPVs never came to fruition). ability to embark two helicopters a complex and high workload for
ASM armed helicopters deployed remains a significant asset provided the single operator; consideration is
from surface combatants remain a by the FFG. The Anzac Class frigates being given to addressing HMI and
most effective weapon option against and the new Hobart Class AWD can specifically the workload associated
missile armed patrol boats and larger embark only one helicopter which with concurrency tasking.
surface combatants optimised to impacts on the numbers of helicopters Another UW feature is the addition
operate in the littoral and archipelagic available in an RAN surface force of the Petrel Mine and Obstacle
areas in Australia’s region. While there to support operational rotation and Avoidance Sonar (MOAS). The MOAS
are well founded concerns about the redundancy. This shortcoming will provides three dimensional imaging
emergence of submarine capabilities be felt in the future as the FFGs retire and automatic detection and tracking
in the region the missile armed patrol from service. out to around 700 metres. The MOAS
boat remains a considerable threat and The onboard UW package in the is controlled and monitored from the
the ADF continues to have a significant Upgraded FFG comprises several bridge. It performs extremely well in
capability gap in effectively dealing with significant capability enhancements. its designed role and provides a very
this threat. The AN/SQS 56 and Mulloka hull useful aid to navigation in confined
mounted sonar’s (HMS) have been waters.25 The FFG Petrel MOAS is
Underwater Warfare (UW) replaced with the second generation the same as that fitted in the Anzac
The Upgraded FFG offers the most Spherion medium frequency HMS that frigates, thus offering training and
advanced and comprehensive surface provides active and passive submarine supportability benefits.
combatant based UW capability now detection capabilities. The Albatross
available in the RAN. Somewhat Torpedo Detection System (TDS) The Combat System
similar to AW, effective UW protection towed passive array has been added. The FFG Operations Room (Combat
of surface vessels and geographic When combined with the Lescut Information Centre - CIC) layout
areas like approaches to ports and acoustic decoys, this system offers a remains virtually unchanged from
straits used by international shipping greatly enhanced self defence capability the original configuration. However,
requires a layered defence or defence in against torpedo attack. Information changes soon become apparent
depth approach that is asset intensive. from the HMS and the towed array is with new flat screen colour displays,
The outer layer may include forward fused and integrated automatically into although functionality is very similar
deployed submarines like the Collins the combat system. to the former arrays with the NCDS
Class and land-based maritime patrol Like the ES system experience, functions retained. ADACS Baseline
aircraft (MPA) like the P3C Orion. The initial results from the onboard UW Build 3 software package is currently
FFG retains the capability to integrate sensor package were disappointing. undergoing trials in HMAS Darwin.
with MPA via data link and voice Trials conducted at the Canadian This brings Link 16 capability plus a
communications and to coordinate, Nanoose Bay fully instrumented number of fixes to address software
control and direct wide area UW underwater range facility have integration problems identified
surveillance activities. confirmed that the sensors are during trials. The incorporation of
The FFGs capacity to embark and performing satisfactorily and system advanced command and control (C2)
operate two S70B Seahawk helicopters interface problems have been identified and decision support features like
presents a significant force protection that are being resolved. Anecdotal automatic detection and tracking of
Journal of the Australian Naval InstituteIssue 130 11
many hundreds of targets, dissimilar increasing the limiting displacement schedule slippages, initial equipment
sensor data fusion, improved from 4100 tons to 4200 tons. application courses soon fell out of step
tracking in clutter, automatic threat Modifications have included reduced with posting cycles. This has meant
grading, interfaces with weapons electromagnetic and acoustic that some personnel have experienced
and sensor systems and the multi- signatures. Improved resilient the frustration of not being adequately
tier weapons scheduler in the Mk 92 mountings for machinery have been trained for the systems they are to
system significantly improve the C2 incorporated to reduce self noise operate. Combined with systems
performance of the FFG and reduce which contributes to enhanced sonar performance teething problems it is
operator workloads. A new Combat performance. not surprising that there has been a
Data Link Management System The Upgraded FFGs are in many “crisis of confidence” among some
(CDLMS) has been incorporated respects now Australian “orphans” FFG personnel. Now that systems
to enable Link 11 and Link 16 to be which means that Defence must integration and performance problems
managed. take responsibility for configuration are being resolved perception and
The upgraded C2 package includes management and through life support. attitude issues may soon ease. Certainly
an On Board Training System (OBTS) This offers challenges and advantages, the Upgraded FFGs are fine ships with
that provides sensor stimulation (the like full control over software excellent capabilities and hopefully all
facility to inject false targets through management and maintenance. FFG personnel will soon become justly
the sensors) and effector (weapons) Inclusion of the WSSC is an important proud of being involved.
simulation to avoid safety issues. The feature. A windfall logistics outcome There may however be a more
OBTS is reported to be an excellent from project delays and the decision complex and demanding people
training aid that provides realistic not to proceed with upgrades to issue that needs to be addressed.
presentations for operator training.26 Adelaide and Canberra is that six ship The Upgraded FFG in many respects
sets of new equipments were procured. represents a quantum leap in capability.
Supportability This means that further options for For example, the new ES system is far
A major feature of the Upgraded spare parts are available to support the more sensitive and capable than its
FFG and one of the main reasons upgraded equipments and the retired predecessor and indeed any ES system
for initiating the upgrade is greatly FFGs have been comprehensively in the RAN inventory. Similarly, the
improved supportability. In addition cannibalised for spares to support UW package with the active/passive
to the weapons and sensor upgrades legacy equipments. HMS integrated with a TDS towed
already outlined several obsolete and array that also offers a passive detection
obsolescent equipments have been Human Capability capability, provides a far greater
replaced. The combat and weapons Human capability is an essential level of capability and accompanying
systems are now supported by AN/ component of combat capability; complexity than the RAN surface
UYK 43 computers, which have indeed it is the most important community has previously
replaced the AN/UYK 7 computers. capability factor. Clearly the FFG encountered.
Former FFG sailors will be pleased to Upgrade Project has been a long and Configuring smart systems
learn that the often problematic ship’s frustrating experience for many of the for optimum performance and
service diesel generators (SSDGs) and FFG personnel involved. For example, understanding the results generated
400 Hz static frequency converters as the lead ship to be upgraded, the requires equally smart and experienced
(SFCs), essential to the provision of Sydney team have borne the brunt operators who know much more
power for the ship’s systems, have of much of the initial trials programs than simply how to operate the
been replaced. The former SSDGs enduring the vague and dynamic equipment. They need to have a
have been replaced with Caterpillar nature of contractor driven schedules. deep understanding of the operating
diesel generators that are painted in HMI has been identified as an issue environment, whether, for example
stylish white and the SFCs are now with both the ES and UW systems and it is the electromagnetic spectrum
solid state. Chilled water systems have there may be shortcomings in other for electronic warfare or the acoustic
been upgraded however the original areas. Lack of familiarity with the environment for undersea warfare.
signal data converters (SDC) have been new systems has been exacerbated by The generic combat system operator
retained. reduced access while the systems have concept supported by application
Platform upgrades have included been in contractors’ hands. Also, given courses may no longer be sufficient.
Journal of the Australian Naval InstituteWelcome to the future
of naval maintenance
Photos courtesy KBR's capabilities include ILS planning at
of Defence the conceptual stage of a project
Applying commercial best practice
to sustain complex maritime platforms
and systems
Jointly providing integrated materiel
services to the RAN’s amphibious and
afloat support ships
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K0709 09/07Issue 130 13
The most capable warships in the Navy’s history set to join the Fleet
Conclusions first time the RAN has a genuine
The FFG Upgrade Project grew ship borne area air defence capability.
from an evolving Australian Air defence comprises several layers
defence policy context of utilising enhanced systems and sensors
indecisiveness, procrastination combined with comprehensive hard
and lack of commitment to and soft kill capabilities. The AW and
defence expenditure. The Project anti-ship missile defence capabilities
commenced in 1993 following are impressive. The FFG SW
a policy statement in 1991 capabilities have also been enhanced.
that mid-life modernisations The UW package is the most capable
A potent air defence The advent of relatively advanced, for surface combatants were for a surface combatant in the RAN
package
very capable and complex systems considered not to be cost effective with the capacity to embark two
in the Upgraded FFG may serve as a and would not continue. Concerns Seahawk helicopters and improved
useful precursor to the introduction with supportability and survivability onboard active and passive detection
of the even more capable and complex of the FFGs in a contemporary threat capabilities. These enhanced naval
AWDs. There may be a requirement environment were the key drivers that warfare capabilities are fully integrated
for the Navy to revisit the issue of deep led to the decision to proceed with an with a unique Australian combat
specialisation for systems operators in upgrade. system. The combination of systems
the surface community. The contract for upgrading the and weapons improvements provides
FFGs was signed with ADI Ltd, now a considerable naval warfighting
Tactical Development trading as Thales Australia Ltd, in capability in a compact package.
During the preparation of this 1999. The upgrade is one of the most One of the key objectives of
article the extent to which tactical sophisticated and extensive capability the Upgraded FFG was to improve
employment of the Upgraded FFG enhancements of a surface combatant supportability and this appears to have
has been the subject of thoughtful ever undertaken. The parties to the been achieved. Concerns remain with
and experienced consideration was Project underestimated the challenge performance, integration and therefore
not able to be ascertained. Clearly the and the Project has suffered schedule acceptance of the ES and UW systems.
FFG presents a significant capability slippages to the extent that it is Technical and other issues have been
enhancement and its effective now some four and a half years late. identified and are being progressively
employment requires considerable Delays and relationship difficulties resolved. There is now confidence
tactical development effort, including have contributed to frustration and that the FFGs will soon be back in
experimentation and fleet trials to disappointment for all concerned. operational service.
ensure that it is employed to the This has impacted on confidence in Issues like HMI, human capability
optimum effect in a range of diverse the Upgraded FFG within the Navy development and tactical development
and demanding scenarios. The simple and between the Navy, Defence and may require further priority attention.
fact that the RAN has for the first time Government. Significant project The Upgraded FFG provides a valuable
a genuine area AW defence capability management related lessons have been growth path toward introduction of
at its disposal means that new learnt and re-learnt in what has been a the AWDs and the lessons learned
thinking about tactical employment difficult project for all parties. After an should be helpful when introducing
of the FFG should be a priority. When extensive contract renegotiation and that advanced warship in to service.
combined with the enhanced FFG the adoption of a more collaborative The FFGs and AWDs will be in service
UW capability, in a regional security approach, the Upgraded FFG Project together for several years, and along
context that includes rapid qualitative now appears to be on track to achieve with the Anzac FFH, will provide the
and quantitative improvements to delivery of ships to the Navy during Navy and Australia with a small but
maritime capabilities, including the late 2008 and during 2009 to meet the potent surface combatant capability.
proliferation of submarines, the need revised schedule. The Upgraded FFG is a highly
for concerted tactical development The Upgraded FFG presents a capable warship that is well constituted
efforts is compelling. higher level of surface combatant to make a major contribution to
capability than previously available Australia’s maritime security over
in the history of the RAN. For the the next decade. FFG personnel will
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute14
The most capable warships in the Navy’s history set to join the Fleet
or upgraded facility or Upgraded Software Sight: The RAN in the North Arabian Gulf,
continue to serve with pride and conform to the requirements of the Semaphore Issue 06, June 2008, . The 40th separate deployment of
again become fully operational, now 3 ‘Initial Operational Release’ of Australian naval surface forces to the
with much improved capability as the capability is the milestone at which international coalition in the Persian Gulf
Chief of Navy (CN) on the advice and area commenced in April 2008. Tasks
fighting ships. recommendation of the Fleet and Navy have included enforcing United Nations
Support from the following people Systems Commanders, is satisfied that trade sanctions through the imposition
the operational and materiel state of the of maritime blockade and participation
and organisations in the preparation of Capability and associated deliverables in naval strike and air defence operations
this article is gratefully acknowledged: are sufficiently safe, fit-for-service and during the two Gulf Wars. The FFGs
environmentally compliant to proceed to initially bore the brunt of this commitment.
Commander Craig Powell and the the Naval Operational Test and Evaluation However, recently the Anzac Class ships
team in HMAS Darwin; the Thales (NOTE) period. It is also the milestone, have been rotating through the northern
where any delivery deficiencies with agreed Gulf to meet the national commitment.
FFG Upgrade Project team including contractual remedies are manageable within 14 Australian Government, Defence
Mr Chris Lloyd, Mr Damien Elford the NOTE period and are appropriately Materiel Organisation, op cit. The table was
mitigated at this stage of the programme. taken directly from the Project SEA 1390
and Mr Wayne Haynes; Commodore Importantly, IOR also marks the change in web summary in September 2008.
Drew McKinnie, Mr Mal Adams and ownership from the DMO to Navy. 15 Ibid.
16 McPhedran, I. “$1.4b refit shipshape”
Mr Rob Richardson and others in (Endnotes) Herald Sun, 30 June 2008, page 22. Greg
DMO; Commodore Ian Middleton and 1 Australian Government, Department Combet has been credited with adding
of Defence, Defence Materiel Organisation, impetus to progress of the FFG Upgrade
Captain Tony Partridge in the Surface
Projects: SEA 1390 Ph 2.1 - FFG Upgrade Project, particularly assisting with created
Combatant FEG; and Captain Luke Project (FFG UP), 2 September, 2008. a climate where ES system problems can be
. A concise summary 17 Australian Government, Department
of the FFG Upgrade Project and its history is of Defence, The Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon
provided at this reference. MP, Minister for Defence, 29 Jan 2008,
2 Australia Government, Defence 2000: MIN80129/08, Speech by the Minister
Our Future Defence Force, Commonwealth for Defence at the Pacific 2008 Maritime
of Australia, 2000, pp 117-118. In the 2000 Congress and Exposition, Sydney. The
Defence White Paper the government Minister stated that “The delays, cost
committed to ‘..the same proportion of GDP blow-outs and failure to deliver we’ve
on defence as we are today. That remains experienced in defence procurement in
1.9 per cent.’ There was also an ongoing recent years cannot be allowed to continue.”
commitment for defence expenditure to 2 September, 2008. .
decade’. 18 Defense Industry Daily, 14 January,
Lee Cordner is a Principal Research 3 Australia Government, Department 2008, “Australia’s Hazard(ous) Frigate
of Defence, Australia’s National Security: Upgrade”, 2 September, 2008, . This
Australian National Centre for Ocean to changing strategic circumstances, article is typical of the negative and critical
Australian Government outlays on Defence commentary found in “informed” defence
Resources and Security (ANCORS), had risen to “2 per cent of GDP.” So far the media.
University of Wollongong. He was Rudd government has indicated a similar 19 This table was prepared from
commitment. information provided by DMO in May 2008.
formerly MD of Future Directions 4 Australian Government, Department 20 These remarks were made to the
of Defence, The Defence of Australia 1987, author during a sea riding opportunity in
International Pty Ltd. A proud FFG Australian Government Publishing Service, June 2008 in HMAS Darwin.
Canberra, March 1987, p 43. 21 Initially SM 2 missiles will be
sailor, he served in HMA Ships Darwin, 5 Australian Government, Department employed in the “home all the way” mode.
Sydney and Adelaide. of Defence, Force Structure Review, The mid-course guidance facility is to be
Australian Government Publishing Service, incorporated in the near future.
Canberra, May 1991, pp 15-16. 22 Cobb, A. “East Timor and Australia’s
6 Ibid. Security Role: Issues and Scenarios”, Current
Endnotes
7 Australian Government, Defence Issues Brief 3, 1999-2000, Foreign Affairs,
Materiel Organisation, op cit. Defence and Trade Group, Parliament of
(Footnotes)
8 Australian Government, Australia’s Australia, Department of the Parliamentary
1 ‘Provisional Acceptance’ is a
Strategic Policy, Commonwealth of Library, 21 September 1999. The Aegis-
contractual term that means a ship, system
Australia, Canberra, 1997, p 62. class cruiser USS Mobile Bay was available
or facility is passed from contractor to
9 Australian Government, Defence 2000: to provide air defence cover, .
known performance shortcomings are to be
11 Australia Government, Australia’s 23 Based on conversations with FFG
resolved by the contractor.
National Security: A Defence Update 2007, officers and Surface Combatant Force
2 ‘Acceptance’ means certification by
op cit, pp 50-51. Element Group staff.
the Project Authority that the Contractor
12 Ibid. 24 These remarks were made to the
has fulfilled its contractual obligations,
13 Sea Power Centre – Australia, author during a sea riding opportunity in
subject to any omissions or defects listed,
Department of Defence, Offshore and Out of June 2008 in HMAS Darwin.
and that those Supplies or upgraded FFG
Journal of the Australian Naval InstituteIssue 130 15
Information
Operations develops an IO Annex in support of a the development of the knowledge
Management in the Joint CONOPS along with supporting
elemental appendices as appropriate.
edge.’ It states that ‘A knowledge edge
will exist when there is a comparative
RAN HQJOC disseminates the approved
CONOPS to the tactical level via the
advantage in those factors that
influence decision making and its
By Donald Deakin-Bell component commanders in the form of effective execution.’ 4. IO is a major
an Operational Instruction (OPINST) means that enables a force to have such
containing the IO Annex. The IO a knowledge edge over adversaries.
W e live in the Information
Age, where the ability to use
information is the mark of a country’s
implementation is chiefly carried out
by tactical level units.
The RAN is involved in the
The RAN is increasingly operating
in the littoral environment, with a
focus on such activities as operations
economic and social superiority. implementation of these IO Annexes other than war including peacekeeping
Superior Information Technology instructions using its tactical level and constabulary operations and is also
and analysis is the key to an advanced units and capabilities, yet generally has significantly improving its amphibious
nation’s competitive advantage. This not been involved in the development operations capability. This is a major
is also true for a nation’s military of the instructions that it has to change from the mid ocean blue water
competitive advantage. implement as it has few people trained focus of the Cold War. In order for
Information superiority in the as IO Staff officers and no personnel the RAN to create a knowledge edge
military environment is created by the Blue water allocated to HQJOC IO planning. to meet the challenges of Littoral
Hard Art of Soft War1 the conduct of engagements The RAN has capabilities and Operations, the integrated capability
Information Operations (IO). ADDP interests in many of the areas of IO, offered by IO is needed. IO is a classic
will become
3.13, Information Operations states that especially Electronic Warfare (EW), asymmetric force multiplier, which
IO ‘is not a capability in its own right,
increasingly Computer Network Operations can either be used by our opponents
but a collection of capabilities brought rare… just prior (CNO)/Information Assurance (IA), or by us.
together and focused for a specific to the Battle of Military Deception, Operational The important thing for the RAN
effect’ 2. Leyte Gulf. Security (OPSEC) and Protective to realise is that as CAPT Wayne P.
Security. The RAN does not co- Hughes states in his seminal book
Ships are,
IO is ordinate these capabilities when it on Fleet Tactics, ‘It is relatively rare
The integrated employment of the
from left to conducts operations, rather each for two fleets to meet simply and
core capabilities of electronic warfare, right: Musashi, capability operates as a separate entity. specifically to gain control of the sea.
computer network operations, Yamato, a cruiser In most cases one side or the other
psychological operations, military and Nagato. Why IO is important has to deal directly and immediately
deception and operations security, So why is IO important to RAN? RAN with an object on land’5. The object of
(Courtesy of Mr.
in concert with specified supporting Doctrine 1, Australian Maritime the threat or use of military power is
and related capabilities to influence,
Kazutoshi Hando, Doctrine talks about the ‘Revolution to persuade an opponent to do your
disrupt, corrupt or usurp adversarial 1970.US Naval in Military Affairs being drive by the bidding. If this can be done without
human and automated decision Historical Center information revolution..’ and the ‘high force, so much the better.
making while protecting our own 3.
Photograph) priority being placed by the ADF on This paper proposes a means of
IO is an integral part of Effects managing Information Operations
Based Operations (EBO), thus a major within the RAN.
departure from the platform based Military Forces are used by the
mindset that pervades the RAN. Australian Government to pursue
Information Operations are a National Policy in the international
“Whole-of-Government” development, arena as a means of projecting
beginning with Shaping and National Power and persuading other
Influencing (S&I) conducted at the nations and non state players to agree
strategic-level and communicated to Australian goals. The spectrum of
to the operational-level, HQJOC, in use of the military ranges from co-
the form of a Strategic Shaping and operative regional engagement with
Influencing Plan (SSIP). HQJOC other nations, through constabulary
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