SYDNEY – Austal Australia and Harland & Wolff Group have announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the construction of aluminum ships, a strategic initiative to strengthen the UK’s maritime security. The announcement was made at the Indo-Pacific Maritime Exhibition held in Sydney today.

The partnership between the two shipbuilders is non-exclusive and aims to strengthen the shipyards’ capabilities through the transfer of next-generation technologies and specialized skills in the design of aluminum patrol vessels. This collaboration is all the more important as it plays a vital role in the UK Border Force’s massive £700 million vessel replacement programme.

Paddy Gregg, CEO of Austal, and John Wood, CEO of Harland & Wolff, have committed to joining forces to find new business opportunities in the shipbuilding sector. The move underlines its commitment to strengthening the UK’s maritime capabilities, particularly in light of the planned deployment of the new £74 million Lethal Cape class ships.

These new ships are at the center of the UK’s strategy to retire obsolete units from the fleet and are expected to play a vital role in combating organized crime and managing illegal immigration. This partnership highlights a shared vision of innovation and excellence in maritime security and defense.

This article was generated and translated with the help of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information, please see our T&Cs.