Hofmann Engineering delivers on the Hunter Class Frigate Program

The sonar dome sole plate is a critical piece of equipment for the Hunter class frigates, forming part of the hull structure and enabling the integration of the sonar equipment into the bow of the frigate.

Managing Director of BAE Systems Maritime Australia, David Shepherd, highlighted the importance of this piece of equipment and Australian industry’s role in the Hunter program.

“This is a very substantial – in terms of its size, weight, and the extremely tight tolerances it must be manufactured to – piece of the frigate, and it is a testament to Hofmann Engineering’s specialist capability that they have now delivered it to Adelaide.

“With the construction of NUSHIP Hunter continuing at pace with more than 60% of the frigate in fabrication or construction phases, the work of our supply chain partners, like Hofmann Engineering, is crucial to equipping the Royal Australian Navy with a superior anti-submarine warfare capability.

Chief Executive Officer of Hofmann Engineering, Oliver Viehweider, highlighted the importance of sovereign manufacturing capabilities in Australia and the part Hofmann Engineering is playing in that space.”

“The manufacturing of the sonar dome sole plate for NUSHIP Hunter illustrates the unique abilities of Hofmann Engineering and the importance of sovereign manufacturing. This was a very challenging and technically difficult component and to be able to deliver this locally is a testament to our team and the capabilities of our business.”

“Being able to support BAE Systems with such an important element of the ship is extremely rewarding. It also builds the supply chain depth in order to potentially unlock other opportunities for Hofmann Engineering.

“Hofmann Engineering looks forward to working with BAE Systems on the future sonar dome sole plates, as well as any other precision manufacturing requirements across this or other Defence projects.”