Latest AWD HMAS Brisbane commissioned

Australia’s national security has been significantly strengthened today with the commissioning of the second Australian-built Hobart class guided missile destroyer, HMAS Brisbane.

The commissioning is an important milestone in the life of the ship, and a special occasion for the thousands of Australians who worked on the Air Warfare Destroyer program, as well as the Royal Australia Navy.

Brisbane enters service at a significant time in Navy’s history.

The destroyer brings a level of flexibility and lethality to the role of protecting Australian and multinational task groups operating in an increasingly complex region and beyond.

The Hobart class of ships, commissioned by the Coalition in 2007, are among the most potent warships at sea today, forming an important part of the defence of our nation.

Brisbane’s Commanding Officer, Commander Josh Wilson, leads a proud ship’s crew that is well-placed to progress the new warship through the test and evaluation period and then integration into the fleet.

Brisbane has a distinguished history in the Navy and with the motto, Aim at Higher Things, all who sail in her will realise the incredible capability she represents.

The new destroyer forms part of the largest regeneration of the Royal Australian Navy since the Second World War and complements our $90 billion commitment in the 2016 Defence White Paper to further enhance Navy’s capabilities with the Offshore Patrol Vessels, Hunter class frigates, and 12 regionally superior submarines, to be built in Australia, with Australian shipbuilding workers.

More information on HMAS Brisbane (III) is available at http://www.navy.gov.au/hmas-brisbane-iii

Source: Defence Media