Australia's
Strategic Policy
Missiles for ANZAC Ship Helicopters
- Eight ANZAC frigates are being built by Tenix Defence Systems. The
first has entered service and the remainder will be delivered over the
next several years.
- Initially the ships will be fitted with a basic suite of equipment,
allowing for more advanced equipment in the future with minimal disruption.
A series of upgrades are already in progress including capability to fire
Harpoon anti-ship missiles, acquisition of Super Seasprite helicopters
to embark on the ships, and additional self-defence capabilities.
- As a key element in this progressive upgrade, Penguin anti-ship missiles
will be purchased for the Super Seasprite helicopters. These missiles will
provide a potent strike capability, particularly in coastal waters, and
will allow strikes against other ships while the ANZAC frigate remains
safely out of range of a response. Penguin will complement the open ocean
longer-ranged Harpoon missile which is carried by other ADF ships, aircraft
and submarines.
- The Penguin missiles will enter service early next decade in conjunction
with the introduction of Super Seasprite helicopters.
Artists Impression of the Super Seasprite
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AUSTRALIA'S STRATEGIC POLICY
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Last update: 2 December 1997.
Copyright (c) Commonwealth of Australia
1996-97.