Australian Navy look to procurement solutions for vessels

The Defence Capability Plan (DCP) has proposed acquisition of the UK’s Bay Ship landing dock vessels, with the initial procurement decision due mid decade.

This would mean disposing of the ageing landing ship HMAS Tobruk and either HMAS Manoora or Kanimbla.

"Decommissioning Tobruk and/or one of the LPAs (Manoora or Kanimbla) now to purchase the UK's decommissioning Bay class would provide considerable savings in operating costs and maintenance and will free up personnel for transition training to the LHDs," the DCP said.

In an editorial in its publication The Navy, the Navy League said this was a golden opportunity and it was time for a rethink and rationalisation of the navy's current amphibious capability.

Under current plans, the navy is acquiring two Spanish-built 27,000 tonne landing helicopter dock (LHD) ships, scheduled to enter service from mid-decade.

The latest Defence Capability Plan (DCP) proposes acquisition of a new strategic sealift vessel of up to 15,000 tonnes, with the initial procurement decision in mid-decade and entry to service around 2022-24.

The Navy League said there was potential for Australia to benefit from the UK review.

"All of which would enable a far timelier realisation for the government's 2009 White Paper strategy for the ADF's amphibious deployment and sustainment project as well as a capability increase."

The League noted the significantly smaller crew required for the Bay class vessels - 60 compared to 144 for Tobruk and 180 for Manoora or Kanimbla.

However, it wasn't optimistic defence would appreciate the benefits of this deal.

It said in 1998 Australia passed up the opportunity to acquire four surplus US Kidd class destroyers for $30 million each in favour of a so far problematic upgrade of existing guided missile frigates.

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