Canada Navy Canada Surface Combatant (CSC) Program

[Ted Barnes]

Australia Cuts Steel on its First Hunter-class Frigate

Steel cutting ceremony for the first Hunter-class frigate. Government of South Australia picture.

Australia Cuts Steel On Its First Hunter-Class Frigate​

Australia's future Hunter-class of frigates took a significant step forward today, when BAE Systems cut steel on the first of six vessels at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide, South Australia.​

Naval News Staff 21 Jun 2024


Australia Department of Defence press release

Today, the Albanese Government has taken another significant step in delivering Navy’s enhanced lethality surface combatant fleet with construction commencing on the first Hunter Class Frigate.
This major milestone was marked by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Premier of South Australia cutting the first piece of steel to be used on the first ship of the class.
Earlier this year, the Albanese Government announced the most significant investment in Navy’s surface fleet in decades. This included a commitment to build six Hunter class frigates in South Australia to significantly improve Navy’s undersea warfare and strike capability.
The contract for the construction phase for the first three Hunter Class Frigates has now been signed by Defence and BAE Systems Australia, with the first Hunter Class Frigate expected to be operational in 2034.
Construction of the Hunter Class Frigates will take place at the Osborne Naval Shipyard as part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to continuous naval shipbuilding in South Australia.
The construction phase of the Hunter Class Frigate Program will run for 20 years.
At its peak this program will support around 3,000 direct jobs and will support a further 5,000 indirect jobs across the Australian supply chain.
These jobs are in addition to the thousands of highly skilled workers that will be required to build our AUKUS submarines and extend the life of the Collins class submarines, both of which will also take place at Osborne in South Australia.
The Hunter Class Frigates are a key component of the Albanese Government’s commitment to ensure the Royal Australian Navy has a surface fleet with high levels of lethality and deterrence in a time of increased global uncertainty.

Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP, said:
“This first milestone is not just about cutting steel; we are supporting Australian workers to build frigates in an Australian yard, supporting Australian industry.
“Continuous naval shipbuilding is how Australia will grow its shipbuilding and sustainment workforce, industry, and infrastructure.
“This milestone exemplifies our government’s commitment to deliver continuous naval shipbuilding in South Australia and a future made in Australia, by Australians.
“This project will support highly skilled Australian jobs, including around 3,000 direct jobs at its peak and a further 5,000 indirect jobs through the Australia supply chain.”

Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, said:
“This is a momentous day for our state.
“The construction of the frigates locks in a pipeline of continuous naval shipbuilding in South Australia, delivering thousands of secure, well paid jobs for generations to come.
“This delivery of frigates alongside SSN-AUKUS submarines puts South Australia front and centre in the most crucial of national endeavors.
“It also represents a step change in our state’s economic complexity, which will help improve the standard of living for South Australians more broadly.”
-End-

Hunter-class frigate scale model on BAE Systems booth at IndoPacific 2023.

BAE Systems Australia press release

The Commonwealth of Australia has awarded BAE Systems Maritime Australia a contract to build the first three Hunter class frigates as the program celebrates its transition into formal construction phase.
Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles and the Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, officially cut steel on the first ship at a ceremony at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide, South Australia.
The event was attended by representatives from Federal and State Governments and the Royal Australian Navy, as well as BAE Systems Australia industry partners, suppliers and employees.
The piece of steel cut forms part of the under structure support for the port side propeller shaft brake system.
Based on the Type 26 Global Combat Ship, the first four of which are under construction at BAE Systems’ site in Glasgow, UK, Hunter is one of the world’s most advanced anti-submarine warfare frigates and will provide the Royal Australian Navy with next-generation capability.
Ben Hudson, Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Australia, said:
“This is a proud moment for all of us at BAE Systems Australia and it comes at a time when the capability of Hunter has never been more important.
“Hunter will be one of the most technologically advanced, stealth-capable anti-submarine warfare vessels in the world and its modular mission bay allows it to undertake a wide-range of missions from warfare to humanitarian and disaster relief.
“Over the coming years we will build and deliver the first three Hunter class frigates to the Royal Australian Navy.”
Craig Lockhart, Managing Director, BAE Systems Australia – Maritime, said:
“We already have a head-start on the construction of the first Hunter class frigate, with six schedule protection blocks already in production approved under the design and productionisation phase as part of the risk mitigation strategy.
“This program has always been more than just building ships, we have created world-leading facilities, a vibrant supply chain ready to step up to full rate of production and a workforce that is proving it can produce the highest quality shipbuilding products that can compete anywhere.
“This moment has been a long time in the making and it has been a tremendous journey so far, but we have demonstrated that together with our partners, suppliers and the great team both here at Osborne and in the UK, we are up to the task and raring to go.”
-End-

BAE Systems
Naval News comments:
A review into Australia’s procurement of the Hunter class frigate (issued in January) has found serious issues with the procurement process that led to the BAE Systems Type 26 design being selected for the Royal Australian Navy’s future frigates.
Subsequently, the Australian government on February 20 released a long awaited response outlining intentions for modernization and expansion of the RAN surface fleet. As a result, the Hunter-class program has been reduced from 9 to 6 ships. Together with the Hobart-class AAW-destroyers, the vessels are now classified as “Tier 1”combatants for the future fleet mix. In line with this perception Canberra intends to cut Hunter short at six instead of nine hulls. A “lower end”- or “Tier 2”-design has emerged as new effort to come true on the requirement for an additional ANZAC-successor and growing the RAN surface fleet.
The first Hunter will now be delivered to the RAN in 2032, with the final vessel delivered in the early-2040s.

Hunter-class frigate specifications:
Displacement: 8,800 t full load
Length: 151.4 m (496 ft 9 in)
Beam: 21.4 m (70 ft 3 in)
Propulsion: CODLOG configuration
Speed: 27+ knots
Range: 7,000 nautical miles
Complement: 180 sailors (accommodation for 208)

 

[Ted Barnes]

Big news on Friday.

Minister Blair to visit Halifax, Nova Scotia to discuss Our North, Strong and Free and launch construction on the Canadian Surface Combatant fleet - Canada.ca

The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, will visit Halifax from June 27 to June 28, 2024 to discuss Canada’s defence policy update, Our North, Strong and Free, launch construction on the Canadian Surface Combatant project

www.canada.ca

 

[DAVEBLOGGINS]

Big news on Friday.

Minister Blair to visit Halifax, Nova Scotia to discuss Our North, Strong and Free and launch construction on the Canadian Surface Combatant fleet - Canada.ca

The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, will visit Halifax from June 27 to June 28, 2024 to discuss Canada’s defence policy update, Our North, Strong and Free, launch construction on the Canadian Surface Combatant project

www.canada.ca

Launching the "Construction of the CSC Fleet" on Friday to me means that the Definition Phase is now complete and ISL Contracts have been signed for the first batch of Frigates and we are finally ready to go, correct? Or is this all "political fluff" and a "photo-op" by the MND with nothing really changing. If the Definition Phase Three has been completed, then where is Lockheed Martin's final report or is that still a "government secret". What characteristics will the CSC Frigate finally have? Ted, Canadians need to know what capabilities these Frigates will be fitted with to keep them safe from harm don't you think. That's the reason for spending all these $$ billions; the largest military acquisition since the second world war. Where's The Beef?

 

[Ted Barnes]

Launching the "Construction of the CSC Fleet" on Friday to me means that the Definition Phase is now complete and ISL Contracts have been signed for the first batch of Frigates and we are finally ready to go, correct? Or is this all "political fluff" and a "photo-op" by the MND with nothing really changing. If the Definition Phase Three has been completed, then where is Lockheed Martin's final report or is that still a "government secret". What characteristics will the CSC Frigate finally have? Ted, Canadians need to know what capabilities these Frigates will be fitted with to keep them safe from harm don't you think. That's the reason for spending all these $$ billions; the largest military acquisition since the second world war. Where's The Beef?

Wait until Fri I guess. It may be as simple as the ships names being announced for some other political theater. We'll see.

 

[DAVEBLOGGINS]

Wait until Fri I guess. It may be as simple as the ships names being announced for some other political theater. We'll see.

Naming the Frigates is the least of the MNDs decisions he has to make. Something more substantive on Friday would be more appropriate. Like getting to over 2% of GDP for defence earlier! We will see in 2 days.

 

[Underway]

The first CSC are officially called HMCS Fraser, HMCS Saint-Laurent, HMCS Mackenzie with the Land Based Test Facility taking the name HMCS Assiniboine

Call back to previous ships of the name and the heady days of the 1950's where Canada lead the world in pushing escort ships to do things that were never done before (variable depth sonar, helicopters embarked on small ships, beartrap etc...).

River Class Destroyer

edit: Here's the offical press release. Designation will the DDGH (Destroyer, Guided Missile, Helicopter carrier).

 

[Underway]

New Infographic. RAM has replaced Sea Ceptor as the CIADS.

https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/rcn-mrc/documents/ships/river-fact.pdf

 

[DAVEBLOGGINS]

New Infographic. RAM has replaced Sea Ceptor as the CIADS.

https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/rcn-mrc/documents/ships/river-fact.pdf

View attachment 69003

Also notice that the Variable Depth Sonar (VDS) has also been dropped.

 

[Ted Barnes]

Also notice that the Variable Depth Sonar (VDS) has also been dropped.

Nope the towed low frequency active and passive sonar is still there.

 

[DAVEBLOGGINS]

Based on the new Info-graphic Fact Sheet for the CSC Type 26 River Class Destroyer, here is an "updated" CSC Destroyer Latest Capabilities as of 03 July 2024:

CSC TYPE 26 (RIVER CLASS DESTROYER) LATEST INFO GRAPHIC/CAPABILITIES AS OF 03 JULY 2024​

Here is an update as is either known or speculated, as of 03 July 2024 for the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) Type 26 River Class Destroyer (New Designation) weapons & systems design. The number of MK 41 VLS Cells has dropped to 24 Cells forward vice 32 (for now). As seen by this latest graphic, the mast is not only taller but has lost the X Band Illumination AESA Radar. It has been said that the X Band Illumination Radar is now not required for the CSC Destroyer as the SPY 7 (V) 3 has the capability of targeting all threats on its own. Notice from the new River class Destroyer Info-graphic below that the Sea Ceptor, quad-packed for Close In Air Defence System (CIADS) through DCS/Aegis has been replaced by the Raytheon Block 2 RIM-116C Sea-RAM. In earlier CSC configurations of the CSC Type 26, the Sea-RAM systems were located Port/Stb’d on the waist area decks, however it is not known if this system will be fitted on the midships area where the Sea Ceptor CIADS was located or return to the Waist area decks. The Ultra Electronics Variable Depth Sonar (VDS) known as Towed Low Frequency Active Sonar (TLFAS) has also been eliminated. Notice also that the Port/Stb'd waist areas midships have been "cut-out" to either save weight or perhaps for “future-proofing”. The Leonardo MARLIN 30mm gun mount has been changed to the latest Leonardo 30mm X Lionfish Gun as per para 12. The crew size has increased from 204 to 210 personnel. The ship takeaway tonnage has increased-8,080 tonnes although that may not be the full-load weight (possibly to 9,400 tonnes):

1. 1 x Lockheed Martin (LM) Solid State 3D Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) "S" Band Long Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR)-SPY 7 (V) 3 Phased Array Solid State Air Search Radar with integration into the CMS 330/Aegis Combat System (ACS)-Confirmed by Lockheed Martin (LM).
2. 2 x "X" & "S" Band Navigation Radars from BAE Systems with integration software into the CMS 330/ACS.
3. Lockheed Martin (LM)-Mk 53 Mod 1 Nulka Electronic Warfare Suite System & Anti-Ship Missile (ASM) launchers through FMS/Aegis.
4. MacDonald Dettwiler Associates (MDA)-Future High Energy Laser (HEL) Warfare Defence System.
5. 24 x MK 41 strike length (ExLS) VLS-ESSM2, SM II/IIIC-(SM3/SM6 & Hypersonic Ballistic Cruise Missiles-fitted for, but not with for CSC Batch I build). Batch II build may have up to 64 ExLS Mk 41 cells midships, as with the BAE proposed missile fit for the Australian Hunter class Type 26 Frigate and 4x4 (trainable) NSMs. Note: The Multi-Mission Bay (MMB) & Mission Bay Handling System (MBHS) would then be replaced to accommodate the increased missile load midships and the 24 Mk 41 VLS cell FWD may also be retro-fitted back to 32 cells with Batch II CSC ships; Raytheon Tomahawk Land Attack Cruise Missiles (TLAM) through FMS Aegis.
6. Combat Information Management Systems-Links 11/16/22/GCCS-M/Mode 5S Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) through FMS/Aegis.
7. Light Weight (LW) MK 54 Torpedo system and magazines with twin launcher tubes (Port/Stb’d) through FMS/Aegis.
8. Sea Spider anti-torpedo system (Magellan/TKMS) through FMS/Aegis/CTI.
9. 2 x 21 Raytheon Block 2 RIM-116C Sea-RAM (Rolling Airframe Missiles) DCS/Aegis.
10. 2 x 4 Quad packs Kongsberg NSM Surface-To-Surface Missiles-Port/Stb’d above Multi-Mission Bay (MMB) through DCS/Aegis. These NSM missiles may be “trainable” and increased to 4 x 4 Quad packs for CSC Type 26 Batch II build.
11. Main Gun: 1 x 5-inch Leonardo (Oto Melara) 127mm Light Weight (LW) Land Attack and Anti-Air Vulcano gun with NA-30S Mk-2 Fire Control Radar System (FCS)-forward of the mast). This gun will confer the CSC ships with the ability to fire extended-range, precision-guided Vulcano munitions – both in guided long-range and the ballistic extended-range versions – also with conventional Anti-Air Warfare ammunition through DCS/ (Integration Path-Under Development).
12. Secondary Guns: 2 x X-Gun 30mm x 173 mm weapon system Stabilized Rapid Fire Naval Gun System (from Leonardo-Port/Stb’d of Flight Deck) Lionfish 30 turret with Remote Control (RC) through DCS/(Integration Path Under Development). At the heart of the new gun, is the electrically-powered drum cam which, with rotation provided by a brushless motor (installed inside the same drum cam). The overall X-Gun mass weighs 189 kg (Approx. 417 Lbs.), of which 78 kg of the receiver, 60 kg for the barrel and 35 kg for the feeder. The gun control unit (GCU) adds 16 kg allowing to save the latest data should power fail. With an ‘always safe’ feature, the X-Gun has an adjustable rate of fire up to 200 rpm (single, programmed and continuous burst), and presents two key features: the sniper mode and the next round selection. To enhance precision, with the first mode the round is pre-chambered with the breach nearly closed, minimizing vibrations and firing delay for improved accuracy. Additionally, the weapon incorporates a “first-round selection” capability, allowing immediate firing with the selected ammunition without shooting rounds of the previous type during magazine changes. The X-Gun has a C-UAS capability against mini/micro drones offered by the MF-ABM and its dedicated programmer under development. The X-Gun Lionfish 30 FCS will be able to fully exploit a large database of information on UAS thanks to algorithms based on artificial intelligence (AI) which will be resident on a Decision Support System (DSS). In terms of lethality, development will maximize its effectiveness against airborne targets like UAS, the new ammunition frontal performed mass fragmentation consists of high-quality steel spheres, complemented by natural lateral fragmentation of the cylindrical steel casing. Upon initiation of the High-Explosive (HE) charge, the spheres form a cone with a reduced angle, while the body generates fragments that also travel forward in a cone shape. This creates a wider-angle pattern, increasing Pk over a broader area. The new ammunition can also be used in point detonation (PD) mode, being activated on impact on target. The new ammunition together with the time-delay fuse setting system are expected to be tested before years-end (2024), completing the development program, while qualification will be conducted in 2025. COAX-"Coaxial Electro-Optical Sensor Suite" and ILOS-Independent Line-Of-Site able to fire HE-High Explosive/AP-Armor-Piercing/TP-Target Practice/ABM-Air Burst Munitions. With an X-Gun MER of 3,000+ meters, the turret has a training range of -155° + 155° while elevation is -20°, +70°, with training speed and acceleration of respectively 140°/sec and 220°/sec and elevation speed and acceleration of respectively 90°/sec and 220°/sec. Provided by Leonardo, other solutions are available based on customer requirements, the independent EOD being capable of 360° surveillance, multi-target and tracking tasks, is equipped with a day camera with a detection, recognition and identification range of 9.5, 4.8 and 3 km vs NATO standard target, alongside an IR camera with the same capabilities range of respectively 12, 6 and 3.5 km with cooled sensor (uncooled is also available) and a laser range finder with a 10 km range. ROF-Rate-Of-Fire-SS-Single Shot/200 Rounds Per Minute (RPM). Effective against any surface threats/Helicopters and Drones. Outstanding accuracy and precision; automatic Deul-Feed system; Stealthy Design; Video Tracking Capability; High reliability and ease of maintenance with no deck penetration.
13. Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) through FMS-Direct Commercial Sales (DCS)/Aegis-Sensor Netting-Integrated Cyber Defence System (future-proofing for possible Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) capability.
14. Integrated Bridge & Navigation from OSI Maritime Systems through DCS-CTI.
15. Internal/External Secure Communications Suite-HF/UHF/SHF/VHF/SATCOM from L3 Harris.
16. Electro Optical & Infrared Systems; Radio/Radar Electronic Support Measures (ESMs) to include: Frequency Identification; Laser Warning & Electric Countermeasures System (ECM-RAVEN); Radar/Radio Frequency Electronic Jammers; Electronic Decoy Systems through FMS/Aegis.
17. Lockheed Martin Combat Management System (CMS)-330/Aegis Combat System (ACS) with Aegis Common Source Library (A-CSL) in support of CEC and Canadian Tactical Interface (CTI) with future BMD-Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Capabilities.
18. ESM Support-AN/SLQ-32 (Slick-32) Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP Block 2) through FMS/Aegis.
19. Ultra Electronics Hull Mounted Sonar (HMS)-Ultra S2150 through DCS/CTI.
20. Ultra Electronics Active/Passive Towed Array Sonar (TAS); Towed Torpedo Countermeasures (TTCM)-Sea-Sentor S21700 through DCS/CTI.
21. Sonobouy Processing System (SPS) from General Dynamics with expendable Acoustic Countermeasures through DCS/CTI.
22. Combined Diesel Electric Gas Turbine Propulsion System (CODLOG) to include 1 X Rolls Royce RR/MT 30 Gas Turbine; 2 X Electronic Motors from General Electric; 4 X RR MTU Diesel Generators; Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS) from L3 Harris.
23. CSC Reconfigurable Multi-Mission Bay (MMB) along with a Rolls Royce’ Mission Bay Handling System (MBHS)-reconfigurable mission and boat bays including a 9m rescue boat, two 9-12m multi-role boats, and modular mission support (standard 20ft sea containers/other vehicles).
24. “Future-Proofing”-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) Systems-U.K. Dragon Fire DEW (Port/Stb’d waist areas); USN AN/SEQ-3 Laser Weapon System/Tactical High Power Operational Responder (THOR) DEW systems. These DEW systems however, do require more power than usual weapons systems and may necessitate higher power rated CSC Frigate Diesel Generators (DGs). Autonomous Extra Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XLUUVs) for Special Ops missions (To be housed & launched in the Multi-Mission Bay (MMB). Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Capability with SM3/SM6 and Hypersonic Long Range Ballistic Cruise Missiles through FMS/Aegis.
25. 1 x S-92 CH 148 Cyclone Sikorsky ASW Helicopter with the ability to carry 2 X Cyclones (if required) in the hanger/MMB with Links 16/22 capability; Skeldar V200 UAV-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle helicopter drone system with IR Camera & Data Link capability (possibly x 2) from Saab-known as CU-176 "Gargoyle" helicopter drone either in the hanger or in 20 ft containers in the Multi-Mission Bay (MMB).
26. Speed-approximately 27-30 kts. Statement Of Requirement (SOR); required capability for US Carrier Battle Group (CBG) Ops.
27. Crew Compliment-210 max (with separate female officer/sailor quarters).

MAJOR CSC EQUIPMENT AS PER THE CSC AEGIS COMBAT SYSTEM (CS)

Equipment Name	Procurement Path	Integration Path
Aegis Combat System	FMS	Aegis
3D AESA SPY 7 (V 3) Radar	FMS	Aegis
Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC)	FMS/DCS combined	Aegis
Radar Electronic Support Measure (ESM) SEWIP Block 2	FMS	Aegis
Identification Friend or Foe (IFF)	FMS	Aegis
Mk-41 Vertical Launch System	FMS	Aegis
Missiles ESSSM Block 2; SM2; Tomahawk	FMS	Aegis
Precision Navigation and Timing (PNT)	FMS	Aegis
Lockheed Martin (LM)-Nulka Electronic Warfare Missile Decoy System-Electronic Support Measures (ESM-RAVEN) Electronic Jammer/Decoy System	FMS	Aegis
Raytheon Close-In Air Defence System (CIADS)- Block 2 RIM-116C Sea-RAM (Rolling Airframe Missiles)	DCS	Aegis
Surface-To-Surface Missile Naval Strike Missile (NSM)	DCS	Aegis
Link 11/16/22	FMS	Aegis
Canadian Tactical Interface (CTI)	DCS	CTI
MDA Laser Warning and Countermeasures	DCS	CTI
SRD-506 Communication ESM System	DCS	CTI
Hull Mounted Sonar-Ultra S2150	DCS	CTI
Surface Ship Torpedo Defence System-Ultra S2170	DCS	CTI
Towed Low Frequency Active Sonar-Ultra LFAPS-C	DCS	CTI
Sonobouy Processing System-General Dynamics Canada	DCS	CTI
Torpedo Setting Panel Mk-331 for MK-54 Torpedo	FMS	CTI
Integrated Communications System-L3 Harris	DCS	N/A
OSI Maritime-Integrated Bridge System	DCS	N/A
Main Gun System-Leonardo 5”-127mm Vulcano Gun With NA-30S Mk-2 Fire Control System (FCS)	DCS	Under Development
Secondary Gun System-Leonardo-X 30mm Lionfish-30mm (x 2)	DCS	Under Development

​

 

[uçuyorum]

Not a good time to be skimping on VLS cells. Our ongoing TF2000 destroyer design of similar size was updated to 96 from 64 VLS after the observations of Red Sea situation

 

[Ted Barnes]

Based on the new Info-graphic Fact Sheet for the CSC Type 26 River Class Destroyer, here is an "updated" CSC Destroyer Latest Capabilities as of 03 July 2024:

CSC TYPE 26 (RIVER CLASS DESTROYER) LATEST INFO GRAPHIC/CAPABILITIES AS OF 03 JULY 2024​

Here is an update as is either known or speculated, as of 03 July 2024 for the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) Type 26 River Class Destroyer (New Designation) weapons & systems design. The number of MK 41 VLS Cells has dropped to 24 Cells forward vice 32 (for now). As seen by this latest graphic, the mast is not only taller but has lost the X Band Illumination AESA Radar. It has been said that the X Band Illumination Radar is now not required for the CSC Destroyer as the SPY 7 (V) 3 has the capability of targeting all threats on its own. Notice from the new River class Destroyer Info-graphic below that the Sea Ceptor, quad-packed for Close In Air Defence System (CIADS) through DCS/Aegis has been replaced by the Raytheon Block 2 RIM-116C Sea-RAM. In earlier CSC configurations of the CSC Type 26, the Sea-RAM systems were located Port/Stb’d on the waist area decks, however it is not known if this system will be fitted on the midships area where the Sea Ceptor CIADS was located or return to the Waist area decks. The Ultra Electronics Variable Depth Sonar (VDS) known as Towed Low Frequency Active Sonar (TLFAS) has also been eliminated. Notice also that the Port/Stb'd waist areas midships have been "cut-out" to either save weight or perhaps for “future-proofing”. The Leonardo MARLIN 30mm gun mount has been changed to the latest Leonardo 30mm X Lionfish Gun as per para 12. The crew size has increased from 204 to 210 personnel. The ship takeaway tonnage has increased-8,080 tonnes although that may not be the full-load weight (possibly to 9,400 tonnes):

1. 1 x Lockheed Martin (LM) Solid State 3D Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) "S" Band Long Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR)-SPY 7 (V) 3 Phased Array Solid State Air Search Radar with integration into the CMS 330/Aegis Combat System (ACS)-Confirmed by Lockheed Martin (LM).
2. 2 x "X" & "S" Band Navigation Radars from BAE Systems with integration software into the CMS 330/ACS.
3. Lockheed Martin (LM)-Mk 53 Mod 1 Nulka Electronic Warfare Suite System & Anti-Ship Missile (ASM) launchers through FMS/Aegis.
4. MacDonald Dettwiler Associates (MDA)-Future High Energy Laser (HEL) Warfare Defence System.
5. 24 x MK 41 strike length (ExLS) VLS-ESSM2, SM II/IIIC-(SM3/SM6 & Hypersonic Ballistic Cruise Missiles-fitted for, but not with for CSC Batch I build). Batch II build may have up to 64 ExLS Mk 41 cells midships, as with the BAE proposed missile fit for the Australian Hunter class Type 26 Frigate and 4x4 (trainable) NSMs. Note: The Multi-Mission Bay (MMB) & Mission Bay Handling System (MBHS) would then be replaced to accommodate the increased missile load midships and the 24 Mk 41 VLS cell FWD may also be retro-fitted back to 32 cells with Batch II CSC ships; Raytheon Tomahawk Land Attack Cruise Missiles (TLAM) through FMS Aegis.
6. Combat Information Management Systems-Links 11/16/22/GCCS-M/Mode 5S Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) through FMS/Aegis.
7. Light Weight (LW) MK 54 Torpedo system and magazines with twin launcher tubes (Port/Stb’d) through FMS/Aegis.
8. Sea Spider anti-torpedo system (Magellan/TKMS) through FMS/Aegis/CTI.
9. 2 x 21 Raytheon Block 2 RIM-116C Sea-RAM (Rolling Airframe Missiles) DCS/Aegis.
10. 2 x 4 Quad packs Kongsberg NSM Surface-To-Surface Missiles-Port/Stb’d above Multi-Mission Bay (MMB) through DCS/Aegis. These NSM missiles may be “trainable” and increased to 4 x 4 Quad packs for CSC Type 26 Batch II build.
11. Main Gun: 1 x 5-inch Leonardo (Oto Melara) 127mm Light Weight (LW) Land Attack and Anti-Air Vulcano gun with NA-30S Mk-2 Fire Control Radar System (FCS)-forward of the mast). This gun will confer the CSC ships with the ability to fire extended-range, precision-guided Vulcano munitions – both in guided long-range and the ballistic extended-range versions – also with conventional Anti-Air Warfare ammunition through DCS/ (Integration Path-Under Development).
12. Secondary Guns: 2 x X-Gun 30mm x 173 mm weapon system Stabilized Rapid Fire Naval Gun System (from Leonardo-Port/Stb’d of Flight Deck) Lionfish 30 turret with Remote Control (RC) through DCS/(Integration Path Under Development). At the heart of the new gun, is the electrically-powered drum cam which, with rotation provided by a brushless motor (installed inside the same drum cam). The overall X-Gun mass weighs 189 kg (Approx. 417 Lbs.), of which 78 kg of the receiver, 60 kg for the barrel and 35 kg for the feeder. The gun control unit (GCU) adds 16 kg allowing to save the latest data should power fail. With an ‘always safe’ feature, the X-Gun has an adjustable rate of fire up to 200 rpm (single, programmed and continuous burst), and presents two key features: the sniper mode and the next round selection. To enhance precision, with the first mode the round is pre-chambered with the breach nearly closed, minimizing vibrations and firing delay for improved accuracy. Additionally, the weapon incorporates a “first-round selection” capability, allowing immediate firing with the selected ammunition without shooting rounds of the previous type during magazine changes. The X-Gun has a C-UAS capability against mini/micro drones offered by the MF-ABM and its dedicated programmer under development. The X-Gun Lionfish 30 FCS will be able to fully exploit a large database of information on UAS thanks to algorithms based on artificial intelligence (AI) which will be resident on a Decision Support System (DSS). In terms of lethality, development will maximize its effectiveness against airborne targets like UAS, the new ammunition frontal performed mass fragmentation consists of high-quality steel spheres, complemented by natural lateral fragmentation of the cylindrical steel casing. Upon initiation of the High-Explosive (HE) charge, the spheres form a cone with a reduced angle, while the body generates fragments that also travel forward in a cone shape. This creates a wider-angle pattern, increasing Pk over a broader area. The new ammunition can also be used in point detonation (PD) mode, being activated on impact on target. The new ammunition together with the time-delay fuse setting system are expected to be tested before years-end (2024), completing the development program, while qualification will be conducted in 2025. COAX-"Coaxial Electro-Optical Sensor Suite" and ILOS-Independent Line-Of-Site able to fire HE-High Explosive/AP-Armor-Piercing/TP-Target Practice/ABM-Air Burst Munitions. With an X-Gun MER of 3,000+ meters, the turret has a training range of -155° + 155° while elevation is -20°, +70°, with training speed and acceleration of respectively 140°/sec and 220°/sec and elevation speed and acceleration of respectively 90°/sec and 220°/sec. Provided by Leonardo, other solutions are available based on customer requirements, the independent EOD being capable of 360° surveillance, multi-target and tracking tasks, is equipped with a day camera with a detection, recognition and identification range of 9.5, 4.8 and 3 km vs NATO standard target, alongside an IR camera with the same capabilities range of respectively 12, 6 and 3.5 km with cooled sensor (uncooled is also available) and a laser range finder with a 10 km range. ROF-Rate-Of-Fire-SS-Single Shot/200 Rounds Per Minute (RPM). Effective against any surface threats/Helicopters and Drones. Outstanding accuracy and precision; automatic Deul-Feed system; Stealthy Design; Video Tracking Capability; High reliability and ease of maintenance with no deck penetration.
13. Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) through FMS-Direct Commercial Sales (DCS)/Aegis-Sensor Netting-Integrated Cyber Defence System (future-proofing for possible Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) capability.
14. Integrated Bridge & Navigation from OSI Maritime Systems through DCS-CTI.
15. Internal/External Secure Communications Suite-HF/UHF/SHF/VHF/SATCOM from L3 Harris.
16. Electro Optical & Infrared Systems; Radio/Radar Electronic Support Measures (ESMs) to include: Frequency Identification; Laser Warning & Electric Countermeasures System (ECM-RAVEN); Radar/Radio Frequency Electronic Jammers; Electronic Decoy Systems through FMS/Aegis.
17. Lockheed Martin Combat Management System (CMS)-330/Aegis Combat System (ACS) with Aegis Common Source Library (A-CSL) in support of CEC and Canadian Tactical Interface (CTI) with future BMD-Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Capabilities.
18. ESM Support-AN/SLQ-32 (Slick-32) Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP Block 2) through FMS/Aegis.
19. Ultra Electronics Hull Mounted Sonar (HMS)-Ultra S2150 through DCS/CTI.
20. Ultra Electronics Active/Passive Towed Array Sonar (TAS); Towed Torpedo Countermeasures (TTCM)-Sea-Sentor S21700 through DCS/CTI.
21. Sonobouy Processing System (SPS) from General Dynamics with expendable Acoustic Countermeasures through DCS/CTI.
22. Combined Diesel Electric Gas Turbine Propulsion System (CODLOG) to include 1 X Rolls Royce RR/MT 30 Gas Turbine; 2 X Electronic Motors from General Electric; 4 X RR MTU Diesel Generators; Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS) from L3 Harris.
23. CSC Reconfigurable Multi-Mission Bay (MMB) along with a Rolls Royce’ Mission Bay Handling System (MBHS)-reconfigurable mission and boat bays including a 9m rescue boat, two 9-12m multi-role boats, and modular mission support (standard 20ft sea containers/other vehicles).
24. “Future-Proofing”-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) Systems-U.K. Dragon Fire DEW (Port/Stb’d waist areas); USN AN/SEQ-3 Laser Weapon System/Tactical High Power Operational Responder (THOR) DEW systems. These DEW systems however, do require more power than usual weapons systems and may necessitate higher power rated CSC Frigate Diesel Generators (DGs). Autonomous Extra Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XLUUVs) for Special Ops missions (To be housed & launched in the Multi-Mission Bay (MMB). Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Capability with SM3/SM6 and Hypersonic Long Range Ballistic Cruise Missiles through FMS/Aegis.
25. 1 x S-92 CH 148 Cyclone Sikorsky ASW Helicopter with the ability to carry 2 X Cyclones (if required) in the hanger/MMB with Links 16/22 capability; Skeldar V200 UAV-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle helicopter drone system with IR Camera & Data Link capability (possibly x 2) from Saab-known as CU-176 "Gargoyle" helicopter drone either in the hanger or in 20 ft containers in the Multi-Mission Bay (MMB).
26. Speed-approximately 27-30 kts. Statement Of Requirement (SOR); required capability for US Carrier Battle Group (CBG) Ops.
27. Crew Compliment-210 max (with separate female officer/sailor quarters).

MAJOR CSC EQUIPMENT AS PER THE CSC AEGIS COMBAT SYSTEM (CS)

Equipment Name	Procurement Path	Integration Path
Aegis Combat System	FMS	Aegis
3D AESA SPY 7 (V 3) Radar	FMS	Aegis
Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC)	FMS/DCS combined	Aegis
Radar Electronic Support Measure (ESM) SEWIP Block 2	FMS	Aegis
Identification Friend or Foe (IFF)	FMS	Aegis
Mk-41 Vertical Launch System	FMS	Aegis
Missiles ESSSM Block 2; SM2; Tomahawk	FMS	Aegis
Precision Navigation and Timing (PNT)	FMS	Aegis
Lockheed Martin (LM)-Nulka Electronic Warfare Missile Decoy System-Electronic Support Measures (ESM-RAVEN) Electronic Jammer/Decoy System	FMS	Aegis
Raytheon Close-In Air Defence System (CIADS)- Block 2 RIM-116C Sea-RAM (Rolling Airframe Missiles)	DCS	Aegis
Surface-To-Surface Missile Naval Strike Missile (NSM)	DCS	Aegis
Link 11/16/22	FMS	Aegis
Canadian Tactical Interface (CTI)	DCS	CTI
MDA Laser Warning and Countermeasures	DCS	CTI
SRD-506 Communication ESM System	DCS	CTI
Hull Mounted Sonar-Ultra S2150	DCS	CTI
Surface Ship Torpedo Defence System-Ultra S2170	DCS	CTI
Towed Low Frequency Active Sonar-Ultra LFAPS-C	DCS	CTI
Sonobouy Processing System-General Dynamics Canada	DCS	CTI
Torpedo Setting Panel Mk-331 for MK-54 Torpedo	FMS	CTI
Integrated Communications System-L3 Harris	DCS	N/A
OSI Maritime-Integrated Bridge System	DCS	N/A
Main Gun System-Leonardo 5”-127mm Vulcano Gun With NA-30S Mk-2 Fire Control System (FCS)	DCS	Under Development
Secondary Gun System-Leonardo-X 30mm Lionfish-30mm (x 2)	DCS	Under Development

​

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View attachment 69182

Nope the towed array is still listed on the infographic. 2 MK 49 launchers port and stbd in the same place as the type 26 had their Phalanx.

 

[Ted Barnes]

Not a good time to be skimping on VLS cells. Our ongoing TF2000 destroyer design of similar size was updated to 96 from 64 VLS after the observations of Red Sea situation

Some of the reason why they're going with 42 missiles vice 24 CAMM. Mk 49 can also be reloaded at sea and engage surface, air targets and cheaper. MK 49 will also be easier to integrate with AEGIS.

 

[uçuyorum]

Some of the reason why they're going with 42 missiles vice 24 CAMM. Mk 49 can also be reloaded at sea and engage surface, air targets and cheaper. MK 49 will also be easier to integrate with AEGIS.

Also need to consider future, more advanced threats in the ocean. Having more vls would give room for future developments of defensive armaments, like patriot pac 3 mse being adapted to MK41

 

[Ted Barnes]

Also need to consider future, more advanced threats in the ocean. Having more vls would give room for future developments of defensive armaments, like patriot pac 3 mse being adapted to MK41

Future flights will have more VLS, a redesign at this point would delay further and cost too much money. The Commander of the RCN has stated that CSC's will accompany each other and looking at other options such as a arsenal ship. The second flight will have more VLS. He has challenged the designers to come up with options for 48 VLS that doesn't cut capability. This class of ship is full to bursting with systems and have bloated it so dreams of 96 VLS won't be realized.

 

[DAVEBLOGGINS]

Nope the towed array is still listed on the infographic. 2 MK 49 launchers port and stbd in the same place as the type 26 had their Phalanx.

Hello Ted. Yes, the towed array is still part of the package however the VDS has been cut and is not on the infographic.

 

[Ted Barnes]

Hello Ted. Yes, the towed array is still part of the package however the VDS has been cut and is not on the infographic.

Dave, the towed low frequency active sonar is what MDA calls the VDS. It's what they call it according to a press release from MDA. I checked the infographics and it never listed a VDS, do you have evidence to the contrary or a source? Do you have evidence that noone else has?

 

[DAVEBLOGGINS]

Dave, the towed low frequency active sonar is what MDA calls the VDS. It's what they call it according to a press release from MDA. I checked the infographics and it never listed a VDS, do you have evidence to the contrary or a source? Do you have evidence that noone else has?

Dave, the towed low frequency active sonar is what MDA calls the VDS. It's what they call it according to a press release from MDA. I checked the infographics and it never listed a VDS, do you have evidence to the contrary or a source? Do you have evidence that no one else has?

Ted: The Towed Low Frequency Active/Passive Sonar-Ultra LFAPS-C is an Ultra Electronics piece of kit and not from MDA. The Ultra LFAPS-C known by Ultra as the "Sea Lancer" (2nd Gen) will be fitted on the AB 51 class as well and provides a Low Frequency Active (LFA) Variable Depth Sonar (VDS) in a reelable single tow Passive Array. Perhaps that is where the confusion comes from in earlier CSC fact sheets. So an Active VDS enclosed within the Passive Towed Array. It was always assumed that the VDS was a separate piece of kit, but perhaps not. Sorry, my bad. Please forgive?

​

 

[Underway]

Ted: The Towed Low Frequency Active/Passive Sonar-Ultra LFAPS-C is an Ultra Electronics piece of kit and not from MDA. The Ultra LFAPS-C known by Ultra as the "Sea Lancer" (2nd Gen) will be fitted on the AB 51 class as well and provides a Low Frequency Active (LFA) Variable Depth Sonar (VDS) in a reelable single tow Passive Array. Perhaps that is where the confusion comes from in earlier CSC fact sheets. So an Active VDS enclosed within the Passive Towed Array. It was always assumed that the VDS was a separate piece of kit, but perhaps not. Sorry, my bad. Please forgive?

​

Yah the TLFAPS is a type of VDS. It has both active and passive modes.

 

[DAVEBLOGGINS]

Yah the TLFAPS is a type of VDS. It has both active and passive modes.

Thanks Underway for that "yes" vote. I was definitely a "surface puke" when I was "in the mob" and knew very little of what a "Ping Boatswain" was all about! Ha! All I know is that the Arleigh Burkes will be fitted with this Ultra Electronics beast as will apparently the River Class CSC Type 26 Destroyers. Ready Aye Ready!!!