HMAS Newcastle (FFG 06) 80cm – RAN Guided Missile Frigate

The HMAS Newcastle (FFG 06) was an Adelaide-class guided-missile frigate that served the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) with distinction from 1993 to 2019. Named after the city of Newcastle, this ship was renowned for its versatility, performing a wide range of maritime roles, including air defense, surface and undersea warfare, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Built in the United States and launched in 1992, Newcastle was actively involved in numerous missions worldwide, ranging from peacekeeping and anti-piracy operations to humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts. As one of the final Adelaide-class frigates to be decommissioned, Newcastle holds a special place in Australia’s naval history, embodying the skill and dedication of its crew throughout its service.

To commemorate this iconic vessel, the handcrafted model of the HMAS Newcastle (FFG 06) has been meticulously created from premium timber, capturing the intricate details of the ship’s design. Skilled artisans dedicate over 12 weeks to crafting each model, referencing original plans and photographs to ensure exceptional accuracy and authenticity. This stunning model highlights the ship’s structure, weaponry, and unique features, serving as a lasting tribute to Newcastle’s proud legacy. Mounted on a polished wooden base with a nameplate, this model is a perfect keepsake for collectors and naval history enthusiasts, celebrating the enduring spirit of Australia’s maritime tradition.

Key Feature of the HMAS Newcastle FFG 06 model:

• Realistic recreation of the HMAS Newcastle FFG 06 ship, designed with immense attention to detail.
• Designed and hand-crafted from scratch with real-life markings and equipment.
• Frame built and constructed by hand, pained by hand, for the utmost realism.
• No plastic used, this is made entirely from wooden planks which are hand-placed.
• The model comes with a brass nameplate on the base, and a history sheet included.
• Dimensions: 81cm long x 12cm wide x 31cm high, Scale: 1:170

The history of the HMAS Newcastle FFG 06

The HMAS Newcastle (FFG 06) was an Adelaide-class guided-missile frigate that proudly served in the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) from 1993 until its decommissioning in 2019. Named after the coastal city of Newcastle in New South Wales, the ship was the penultimate vessel in the Adelaide-class, which was based on the American Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates. Commissioned into service on December 11, 1993, Newcastle became a symbol of Australia’s maritime strength and versatility, excelling in a wide range of operations, including air defense, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, and peacekeeping.

Built in the United States, HMAS Newcastle was launched in 1992 and joined the RAN’s fleet as one of its most capable and adaptable frigates. Over its 26 years of service, Newcastle participated in numerous critical missions both regionally and globally. The ship played a vital role in peacekeeping efforts in the Middle East and the Pacific, supported disaster relief operations, and conducted anti-piracy patrols to safeguard international waters. These missions highlighted Newcastle’s ability to adapt to a variety of operational demands, earning it recognition for its contributions to regional and global security.

HMAS Newcastle’s legacy is marked by its dedication to duty, operational excellence, and the professionalism of its crew. As the last Adelaide-class frigate to be decommissioned in the Royal Australian Navy, Newcastle’s service history stands as a testament to the enduring importance of these versatile warships in Australia’s naval history. Its retirement marked the end of an era, with its distinguished career celebrated by both its home port and the wider Australian community.