Adelaide Class Frigate (FFG)

Overview

American-designed guided missile frigates (Oliver Hazard Perry-class derivative) acquired from Australia providing Chilean Navy with air defense and anti-ship capability. Chile acquired 2 Adelaide-class frigates: Almirante Latorre (ex-HMAS Sydney, 2020) and Almirante Williams (ex-HMAS Melbourne, 2020). Based on American FFG-7 design built in Australia with modifications. Displacement of 4,100 tonnes with length of 138 metres. Features Mk 13 single-arm launcher for SM-1MR Standard air defense missiles and Harpoon anti-ship missiles, 76mm gun, Phalanx CIWS, torpedo tubes, helicopter facilities for AS350 or similar, AN/SPS-49 air search radar, fire control radars, and hull sonar. Propulsion via gas turbines providing 29+ knot speed. Crew of 180. Chilean Adelaide-class frigates provide area air defense and anti-ship capability complementing ASW-focused Type 23 frigates. The Standard missiles engage aircraft and missiles at medium range protecting task groups. Regular South American naval operations and exercises. Australian transfers included maintenance support and training. Modernization in Chile extending service life. Future uncertain as ships age but represent capable platforms for Chilean requirements. Complement Type 23 and German frigates creating balanced surface fleet with ASW, air defense, and general-purpose capabilities. Represents Chilean blue-water navy ambitions and commitment to maintaining modern surface fleet.

Operators

• Chile
• Australia

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