Canberra-class

Planning for the Canberra-class landing helicopter docks (LHD) commenced in 2000 to replace the Kanimbla-class ships and HMAS Tobruk. Requirements were based on Australian experiences leading peacekeeping operations in East Timor. In 2007, the Australian government selected a design from the Spanish company Navantia over a competing proposal from DCN. Construction involved the fabrication of hulls in Spain, which were then transported to BAE Systems Australia in Victoria for the installation of the island superstructures and internal systems.

The class is configured for amphibious warfare and sea lift. The design features a draught intended for operations in littoral waters and small harbors. Internal spaces include separate decks for light and heavy vehicles, with the latter capable of carrying tanks or shipping containers. A well deck at the stern supports the launch and recovery of landing craft. The flight deck contains landing spots for helicopters and incorporates a ski-jump ramp. This ramp was retained from the original Spanish design to avoid redesign costs, although the Royal Australian Navy does not operate fixed-wing aircraft from the vessels. Propulsion is provided by an integrated electric system using a gas turbine and diesel generators to drive azimuth thrusters.

Sensor and processing systems include a combat management system and 3D surveillance radar. Defensive equipment consists of remote weapons systems, machine guns, and decoys for torpedoes and missiles. The ships are manned by a joint company of Navy, Army, and Air Force personnel and accommodate an embarked infantry force.

HMAS Canberra and HMAS Adelaide entered service between 2014 and 2015. The ships are home-ported at Fleet Base East in Sydney and regularly operate from Townsville to support the Australian Army’s specialized amphibious infantry battalion. Service history includes a maintenance period for HMAS Canberra in 2021 involving the replacement of propulsion pods. Infrastructure at the home port was modified to include shore-power units to allow the ships to shut down onboard machinery while berthed, addressing local concerns regarding noise and exhaust.