The Project SEA 1448 Phase 4B component of the upgrade improves the Anzac Class Air Search capability by replacing the ageing AN/SPS-49 long range air search radar with a new digital phased array radar developed by Australian company CEA Technologies.

HMAS Anzac is berthed alongside HMAS Arunta at Fleet Base West for the first time post ANZAC Mid-Life Capability Assurance Plan (AMCAP) upgrade. Source Royal Australian Navy.
The AMCAP upgrade is a WAMA project which is a four-way alliance between the Commonwealth’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Saab Australia, BAE Systems and Naval Ship Management Australia.

HMAS Ballarat in the water after undocking at Henderson

The aim of AMCAP is to ensure our Frigates remain at the forefront of regional surface combatant capability until the new Hunter Class Frigate is introduced into service later this decade.

AMCAP consists of three major elements, the most striking is the new air search radar that visually differentiates a post-AMCAP ship from its pre-upgrade counterparts.

The program also focuses on a significant upgrade of the ship’s communications facilities, as well as a general platform systems remediation (PSR) program.

HMAS Ballarat undocking at Henderson

The PSR will see the upgrade of systems such as propulsion control, fridges, waste management and water production.

The upgrade program is being undertaken by Navy and the Warship Asset Management Agreement which is a four-way alliance between the Commonwealth’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Saab Australia, BAE Systems and Naval Ship Management Australia.

Included in the AMCAP upgrade is the replacement of the ageing Air Search Radar capability with the new CEAFAR L-band long-range air search radar.

Designed and produced by CEA Technologies, this new radar technology will also be part of the combat system on board the Hunter-class Frigates which will replace the Anzac class frigates.

HMAS ANZAC

Other major work as part of AMCAP upgrade:

Upgraded ventilation systems;
New sewage systems;
Improvements to the Control and Monitoring System;
Engine modifications to improve power and efficiency;
New communications suite (SEA1442)
Upgraded LESCUT
Upgraded AN/SLQ-25C torpedo self-defence systems
Technical insert for the Saab 9LV 453 combat management system moves its operating system from Windows to Linux.