Australian destroyer's final keel block in place

The final keel block of Australia's first-of-class air warfare destroyers has been lifted into place in preparation for hull consolidation next year.

"This particular block will house flotation and stabilization equipment for the Hobart and will now be consolidated into the existing ship structure to complete the keel," Minister for Defense Materiel Dr. Mike Kelly said.

"The keel is the main structural element stretching along the center line of the bottom of a ship from the bow to the stern. The keel blocks will contain part of the Vertical Launch System, the diesel and gas turbine main engine rooms, auxiliary engine rooms, ballast tanks, propeller shafts and sonar equipment."

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