NEW DELHI (BNS): The Global Combat Ship 'Australia' based on BAE Systems’ Type 26 frigate - one of the world’s most advanced anti-submarine warships - is currently under construction in Glasgow for the Royal Navy.

Once contracted, the new ships, to be called the Hunter class, will be built in South Australia by an Australian workforce, using Australian suppliers from every state and territory.

BAE Systems welcomed the Government’s announcement that ASC Shipbuilding will become a subsidiary of BAE Systems, subject to contract negotiations. Through BAE Systems, ASC Shipbuilding will be responsible for the delivery of the Global Combat Ship - Australia.

BAE Systems will soon commence negotiations with Australia’s Department of Defence on the initial design part of the contract, which is expected to be in place by the year end, with production expected to commence in 2020, a Company statement said.