Lloyd’s Register to provide new construction services for Australia’s Hunter-class frigates

November 6, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

Classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) has been awarded a contract from BAE Systems Maritime Australia for naval classification new construction services for the first three Royal Australian Navy Hunter-class frigates.

The Hunter class frigates are based on the design of the UK’s Type 26 frigate and are being built at Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia.

Under the contract, LR will ensure that the design and construction of the anti-submarine warfare frigates are compliant with LR Rules and Regulations for the Classification of Naval Ships.

The contract will continue through to the entry into service of the third ship and ensure all three frigates meet the requirements of international ship standards for quality, safety, and reliability.

Working onsite at the Osborne Naval Shipyard, LR has been involved with the Hunter Class Frigate Program since 2020.

Andy Coxall, Delivery Director – Acquisition, BAE Systems Maritime Australia, said: “Partnering with Lloyd’s Register for the Hunter class frigates is a demonstration of our commitment to delivering world-class naval vessels built to the highest standards of safety and reliability.”

“At BAE Systems, our mission is to protect those who protect us. By working alongside Lloyd’s Register, we’re ensuring the Royal Australian Navy receives advanced capability tailored to its operational needs and the courageous men and women serving aboard the Hunter class can have confidence in the safety of their vessel.”

“Having worked together on this program for over five years, we are honoured to be contracted to deliver Naval Classification services for the first three ships in this strategic programme for the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Department of Defence,” Steve McDowall, Director of Naval Business Australasia, Lloyd’s Register, stated.

“The Hunter Class Frigate Program is a key element in Australia’s continuous naval shipbuilding objective and all in LR are proud to have been chosen to deliver our New Construction Naval Classification services in support of the design and construction of these highly capable ships for Australia’s Navy,” David Lloyd, Vice-President Naval and Government Business, Lloyd’s Register, commented.

The Hunter-class frigates are a next-generation class of warships being developed to enhance maritime security and combat capabilities. Designed with advanced stealth features, modern sensors, and versatile weapons systems, these frigates are intended for anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and surface combat operations.

Their modular design allows for future upgrades, ensuring adaptability to evolving threats. Emphasizing speed, agility, and networked operations, Hunter-class frigates represent a significant leap in naval capability, providing strategic flexibility for modern naval fleets.