Sydney based company Britton Maritime Systems has been awarded a $9 million contract to build 12 Gemini seaboats for the new evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats.
“The Gemini are specifically designed for the Cape Class vessels, and are already in operation with the current fleet of Navy Cape Class Patrol Boats,” Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said.
“The seaboats are the primary mission system for the Patrol Boats, providing an insertion capability for boarding and landing parties in support of operational requirements.
“Two seaboats will be delivered and fitted to each of the six evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats currently under construction at the Austal Shipyard in Western Australia."
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the Gemini seaboat acquisition would invest more than $6 million into local industry.
“This project will have up to 68 per cent Australian Industry Content, delivering a significant boost for our defence industry,” Minister Price said.
“It demonstrates the capacity of Australia’s East and West Coast defence industries to deliver much needed naval capability."