Second LHD arrives in Melbourne

After travelling over 10,000 nautical miles from Ferrol, Spain, Australia’s second and final Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) has arrived in Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne.

The LHD travelled to Australia on the back of Heavy Lift Ship Blue Marlin, and once commissioned will be known as HMAS Adelaide. 

CEO DMO, Warren King, welcomed the ships’ arrival and noted that Adelaide’s extensive fitting out would soon get under way.

“Australian industry now commences the complex task of integrating the superstructure, combat system and communications system for delivery to Defence in late 2015,” he said.

Once introduced into service, the LHDs will enhance the Australian Defence Force’s ability to deploy and sustain large numbers of personnel and equipment around Australia and within the region.

One LHD will be capable of carrying approximately 1000 embarked force personnel, and simultaneously operate six helicopter spots and four landing craft. The ship will also have advanced communications, planning, command and medical facilities.

DMO Comms