Vessels Powered by LM2500

HMAS HOBART, the first of three air warfare destroyers being built for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), recently successfully completed sea acceptance trials off Australia’s south coast and is scheduled for delivery to the RAN in June.

The vessels will be powered by two General Electric LM2500 marine gas turbines, configured in a COmbined Diesel Or Gas turbine (CODOG) arrangement with two diesel engines. The LM2500 is the most widely used gas turbine in the marine industry, used by 35 navies around the world and has amassed 14 million operating hours in marine applications and a further 65 million in industrial environments. Available in variants with power outputs ranging from 25 to 35MW, LM2500s also power the RAN’s ADELAIDE- and ANZAC-class frigates, and the two Landing Helicopter Dock ships – HMAS CANBERRA and ADELAIDE – both the largest ships ever built for the RAN.

In a separate multi-year agreement, GE provides the Australian Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group’s Maritime Cross-Platform Systems Programme Office with depot-level maintenance for the 16 LM2500 gas turbines that power ADELAIDE- and AMZAC-class frigates. Depot level maintenance is performed by Air New Zealand Gas Turbines, an authorised LM2500 service centre and longtime RAN service provider. GE also provides programme management, on-site field service support, warehousing and inventory management, including spare parts and inventory replenishment throughout the life of the contract. The agreement helps to ensure the RAN optimum fleet readiness and lower total cost of ownership.

“We are proud that GE engines power 100% of the RAN’s gas turbine fleet,” Brien Bolsinger, GE’s Vice President and General Manager, commented. “With extensive in-country engine support capabilities and outstanding reliability, GE’s marine gas turbine family is a low risk solution for navies globally and ideal for the RAN’s next-generation frigate programme.”