Watch: Australian Navy Makes History With Successful Launch Of Tomahawk Missile From Destroyer

Australian Destroyer — Screengrab from Facebook video posted by Royal Australian Navy

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has successfully test-fired a Tomahawk cruise missile from its Hobart-class destroyer, HMAS Brisbane, during trials off the coast of the United States.

This achievement makes Australia one of only three countries, alongside the United States and the United Kingdom, capable of operating an advanced long-range missile.

The Tomahawk missile can strike targets up to 2,500 kilometres away. The test is part of the Australian government’s $1.3 billion investment in long-range strike systems under the 2024 National Defence Strategy.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles discussed the importance of this development. “The enhanced lethality of Navy’s surface combatant fleet is vital to ensuring the Australian Defence Force is equipped to meet our strategic circumstances and keep Australians safe,” Marles said.

The missile was launched from HMAS Brisbane, which is equipped with the advanced Aegis Combat System, AN/SPY-1D(V) radar, and the Mk 41 Vertical Launch System.

Video Credits: Royal Australian Navy/Facebook

These features make the Hobart class destroyers the most suitable platforms for integrating cutting-edge weaponry like the Tomahawk. HMAS Brisbane (DDG 41) is one of the three Hobart-class destroyers in the Royal Australian Navy, commissioned in 2018.

The Royal Australian Navy has also integrated other advanced systems, including, Naval Strike Missile (NSM) and Standard Missile-6 (SM-6). These weapons collectively enhance the Navy’s ability to deter and respond to potential threats in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Tomahawk acquisition is part of Australia’s collaboration under the AUKUS alliance, a trilateral partnership with the United States and the United Kingdom.

The alliance focuses on sharing advanced military technologies to ensure regional security.

Minister of Defence Industry Pat Conroy discussed the strategic importance of the Tomahawk missile. “The Tomahawk is the jewel in the crown and a step change in our firepower, deterrence and ability to strike land-based targets at ranges never before available to the Royal Australian Navy,” Conroy said.

The missiles are expected to be deployed on multiple platforms, including Hobart-class destroyers and Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines, which Australia is acquiring through the AUKUS agreement.

There is also consideration for equipping future Hunter-class frigates with Tomahawk missiles to further strengthen naval capabilities.

Reference: Australian Government Defence

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