Shipbuilders begin construction on fourth Royal Australian Navy OPV

Naval shipbuilder Luerssen Australia is partnering with Civmec in Henderson, Western Australia to build 10 OPVs for the Royal Australian Navy SEA1180 Program.

The partnership also commences the construction and welding for the fourth of the twelve OPVs for the SEA1180 program. The first two OPVs are currently under construction by ASC in Osborne, South Australia

In a statement, Luerssen Australia Chairman Tim Wagner said it was a great honour to be responsible for the delivery of the SEA1180 Program and to be partnering with great Australian companies.

“This is a momentous day for both Luerssen Australia and Australia’s naval shipbuilding sector; a partnership with the Australian Government and local industry that points to a bright future,” Wagner said.

“We are proud to be part of this nation’s shipbuilding capacity, and to ensure that Luerssen design and technology can be married with the best of Australian industry capability,” he said.

Luerssen Australia Chief Executive Officer Jens Nielsen said the SEA1180 Program forms part of the Australian Government’s continuous national shipbuilding program and Luerssen Australia is committed to further develop Australia’s sovereign capability through its supply chain.

Civmec Chairman James Fitzgerald said their incredibly skilled workforce is already at work and we look forward to completing the OPVs through our partnership with Luerssen Australia and the Australian Government.

“Together with Civmec, we take seriously our responsibility to deliver the 12 superior vessels to the Royal Australian Navy,” Fitzgerald said.

“Today’s milestone, is another reminder that the construction of the Arafura Class represents an opportunity for Australia’s defence industry,” he said.

Luerssen Australia serves as the prime contractor and designer for the Arafura Class SEA1180 Program, pledging to deliver the new fleet of 12 OPVs on time and on budget.

Source: Luerssen Australia