The two Anzac class frigates, HMNZS Te Kaha and HMNZS Te Mana are the main combat-capable ships of our Navy and play a vital role in protecting New Zealand, its exports, maritime resources and those of our allies.
The frigates can combat simultaneous threats from the air, surface and subsurface, making them a vital component in maintaining regional security.
The builds of Te Kaha and Te Mana were complete in July 1996 and May 1998 respectively and the ships have a design life of 30 years. A through-life-maintenance cycle has been implemented to achieve this.
Since delivery, two major upgrades have been undertaken the most recent being the Frigate Systems Upgrade.
Technical studies have indicated it is possible to extend the frigates’ lives out to the mid-2030s. To achieve that extended service life and operational availability of the frigates, there is a need to ensure they can continue to operate in a modern environment.
The Frigate Sustainment Programme aims to extend the service life of the frigates past their original 30 year design.
