Leander Class (Ikara) Frigate

F104 HMNZS Southland (ex-HMS Dido)

Taken at the Port of Tauranga, August 1991. Looking aft from the bow - in the middle of the picture is the Ikara launcher mounting. Ikara is an Australian designed ASW weapon utilising a 2-stage solid fuel rocket to launch an acoustic homing torpedo. A number of the Leander class frigates were converted in the mid-1970's, with the twin 4.5" turret being removed. This vessel had the conversion completed in October 1978. There wasn't much to see of the weapon on this ocassion except the launcher, as the shutters in the well were closed. It was interesting to me however, as I hadn't seen any close up pictures of the mounting!

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- HMNZS Southland Page