National company setting up in Adelaide

Through the Hunter Class program, BAE Systems Maritime Australia will build nine of the world's most advanced anti-submarine warfare frigates for the Royal Australian Navy.

Following the successful launch of the prototyping phase in December 2020, BAE Systems Maritime Australia is making good progress in establishing the productive environment in the state-of-the-art Osborne Naval Shipyard, where the Hunter Class frigates will be built.

During prototyping, representative ship blocks are being built and the processes, systems, tools, facilities and workforce competencies are being extensively tested and refined, providing a solid operational foundation ahead of ship 01 construction.

Altrad will blast and paint the steel supplied by BlueScope Steel before it is cut and fabricated into blocks.

The completed blocks will then pass through the new block paint facility where they will be fully painted with the full paint system and be ready for further outfitting work to be conducted.

BAE Systems started working with ICN to identify local suppliers in 2018, before the company was awarded the contract. Since then, BAE Systems Maritime Australia has used the Gateway to promote the Hunter Class program and supply chain updates, as well as communicate with all suppliers and identify sovereign capability.

Before winning the contract to deliver blast and paint services for prototyping, Altrad was in regular contact with ICN SA Supply Chain Manager, Defence, Ariane Lopes. Ariane has supported Altrad Services on how best to promote the company and their capabilities on the ICN Gateway platform. "It has been a pleasure working with Altrad and see their operations grow in South Australia", said Ariane.

John O'Donnell, Altrad's General Manager for Defence across Australia said, "The defence sector is of key strategic importance to the wider Altrad Group. Altrad has a strong Marine and Defence heritage and for over a decade has supported the Armidale and Collins Class programs in Australia."

"Working with BAE on the prototype phase will allow Altrad to build a viable presence and establish a skilled workforce in South Australia. We continue to use the ICN Gateway to seek further opportunities in South Australia in Defence and across our wider business. With the acquisition of Valmec in October 2021, Altrad is now positioned with a new and unique best-in-class service for the Australian Market, to build, protect and extend the life of our client's assets."

Through its tender response, Altrad included an Australian Industry Capability plan and local supplier plan to maximise opportunities for local businesses. It expects to procure supplies from local businesses where possible and has an obligation to engage with Indigenous suppliers.

"As part of our obligation to develop sovereign capability we continue to build our South Australian supply chain and are committed to creating employment pathways for local, diverse and indigenous people." John said.

Find out more about Altrad Services on the company website.