Login
iscover
Austal has announced it has signed a $126 million contract with Trinidad and Tobago to construct two Cape Class patrol boats (CCPB).
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
The vessels will be delivered in the second half of 2020.
Austal chief executive David Singleton said the award of the contract confirmed an important defence export opportunity for Austal and consequent work flow for the company’s Henderson operations.
“It is important to acknowledge that the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian government were instrumental in the success of this defence export program,” Singleton said.
“The RAN, which operates two CCPBs, was an effective advocate of the CCPB capabilities, hosting a sea ride for the visiting Trinidad and Tobago Chief of Defence Staff and engineering team to assess and experience the vessel’s capabilities.
“The Minister for Trade, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence have all provided continuing support and assistance ensuring Commonwealth support was available for this program. The whole-of-government advocacy in support of this defence export opportunity has been instrumental to its success."
Austal originally designed and built 10 CCPBs for the RAN and the Australian Border Force (ABF), with the 58-metre all aluminium monohull patrol boats specifically designed and manufactured to combat the "full range of maritime security threats".
The vessels have a 4,000 nautical mile range and a 28-day patrol cycle with a crew of up to 22 people, and is fitted with two high speed rigid hull inflatable boats used for intercepting other vessels.
“Austal’s Cape Class Patrol Boats have been deployed in difficult maritime situations, intercepting irregular arrivals and preventing illegal smuggling. This proven capability has attracted attention from a number of export markets, including Trinidad and Tobago," Singleton said.
“This latest order adds to Austal’s largest forward order book. The increasing demand in the international market for our unique vessel designs and maritime technology is a real credit to our highly skilled workforce across our operations, who continue to deliver some of the world’s most sophisticated vessels in a highly efficient and cost effective environment.
The Trinidad and Tobago government has requested that the purchase be supported by a financing package through Export Finance Australia, with the Commonwealth announcing in December last year that the Defence Export Facility would be available to support the program.
