The contract award follows Allweld Manufacturing’s successful completion of a ‘Targeted Task’, a BAE Systems Australia initiative to provide selected Australian small and medium enterprises with specific scopes of work to demonstrate their capability.
The company is also a member of BAE Systems Australia’s Partnering4Success program, which provides selected suppliers with a bespoke framework to optimise performance and increase their capability.
BAE Systems Maritime Australia Acquisition Delivery Director, Andy Coxall, highlighted the importance of Australian suppliers for the Hunter program.
“The support of Australian businesses, like Allweld Manufacturing, is paramount to the continued success of the Hunter program and, through that, ensuring that together we contribute to an industry of Continuous Naval Shipbuilding & Sustainment in Australia.
“We are tracking above and beyond our commitment to Australian-made products into the Hunter class. This is a testament to the incredible capabilities of local businesses to supply into the build of one of the world’s most advanced anti-submarine warfare frigates.
“It is especially pleasing to welcome Allweld Manufacturing onto the build program. Their business model and employment opportunities provide strong career pathways within their local community.
They have proven their advanced capability and quality of delivery through their Targeted Task activity, and we look forward to continuing to work with them,” Andy said.
In welcoming the contract, Allweld Manufacturing Director, Josh Linwood, said:
“Allweld Manufacturing is excited to be part of the Hunter Class Frigate Program.
“This opportunity not only recognises the capability of our team but also supports meaningful employment and skills development within our local community.”