Spanish shipbuilder Navantia's Australian subsidiary is undertaking a risk-reduction design study related to future frigates for the Royal Australian Navy.

The nine-month study will specifically analyze the impact of the installation of CEA Australian aerial radar and SAAB command-and-control system on Navantia's F-105 frigates, which Australia will be acquiring.

The study will also involve other Australian requirements for the frigates.

"This is the first step of the program of acquisition of future frigates for the Royal Australian Navy, which includes the building of 8 units in Australia," Navantia Australia said.

"The Australian government will build the ships in Adelaide, where the AWDs (air warfare destroyers) are being built, with the support of Navantia in the design ... and transfer of technology. It is very important to highlight the commonality of systems and equipment with other ships of the Royal Australian Navy."

Navantia Australia said the work will be performed at its newly opened offices in the city of Adelaide.

The contract for the study was signed by Francisco Baron, director of Navantia Australia and Paddy Fritzpatrick, director of Australia's Defense Materiel Organization's Naval Programs unit.