Working Papers: Struggling for a Solution: The RAN and the Acquisition of a Surface to Air Missile Capability

Abstract

This paper outlines the issues and challenges faced by RAN staff in developing and implementing a surface-to-air guided weapon capability for Australia during the 1960s. The primary challenge was to find the right anti-air warfare systems for short and long range capability and to match these to appropriate platforms all whilst adhering to funding constraints. RAN staff assessed available options from both the UK and US and eventually selected the US Charles F Adams Class as its guided missile destroyer. With the TATAR missile system on board and a dimension of 4000 tons, this option was considered the best capability for the RAN to meet Australia’s strategic objectives.

Availability

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