The RAN approached AMT in 1995 (as part of the early internal RAN consideration of potential upgrade paths for the ANZAC Class) to undertake a series of feasibility studies to allow it to gain an appreciation of what was possible to achieve with an ANZAC frigate and thus allow it to develop an approach to future potential capability upgrades.

The studies examined the possibilities of integrating various Area Air Defence solutions on board the ANZAC Ships that would support both an ESSM and SM2 capability. The configurations that were studied included:

AN/SPY-1F AADS with Mk99 MFCS

AN/SPS-48F with Mk 74 Mod 14/15 MFCS

Mk 74 Mod 14/15 MFCS

The studies examined the capability of the various options and their potential impacts on the ships, including structure, stability, mechanical and electrical support systems, accommodation requirements as well as construction and test & trial considerations. For these assessments a substantial degree of analysis was performed and provided as the basis for a series of comprehensive reports.

AMT also subcontracted Gibbs & Cox to provide an alternate solution for the AN/SPY-1F solution derived from USN Aegis experience to provide a comparative masthouse solution that was also assessed for overall ship design impact.

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