Frigates serve many roles:

  • surface warfare

  • submarine warfare

  • escorts

  • surveillance and intelligence

  • search and rescue

  • disaster relief.

Frigates operate in both littoral and blue waters.

HMAS Stuart conducts a Replenishment at Sea with Indian Navy Ships Shakti and Tabar as part of Exercise MALABAR 24 during the ship's regional presence deployment.

The name ‘frigate’ originated in the days of sail and usually described a ship with a single gun deck. The Royal Navy developed modern frigates during the Second World War. This was to overcome the limitations of the Flower class corvettes. Flower class corvettes were the Royal Navy's principal escort and anti-submarine warfare vessels. However, they had limitations including:

  • sea-keeping

  • speed

  • range.

The Royal Australian Navy currently operates seven 3600-tonne, 118-metre Anzac-class frigates. They have:

  • missiles

  • a helicopter

  • torpedoes

  • a 5-inch gun

  • radar, sonar, detection and protection systems.

They have combined-diesel-or-gas engines, are capable of over 27 knots and offer a range of 6000 nautical miles at 18 knots. A typical complement is 22 officers, 140 sailors and up to 16 others (often air crew). 

Two new classes of frigate have been announced: the Hunter class (due in the early 2030s), and general purpose frigates. These frigates will enhance the Royal Australian Navy’s anti-submarine and anti-air warfare capabilities.

HMAS Anzac (III)

HMAS Arunta (II)

HMAS Derwent