Ferry builder offers low cost patrol package

摘要

Western Australian yard Austal Ships is currently involved in the supply of a fleet of 10 high-speed patrol boats to the Republic of Yemen, Ministry of Defence. Based on a proven hullform, built in aluminium to high commercial standards using the latest construction techniques, the 37.5m monohulls are designed to provide a high level of capability combined with reliability, ease of operation, and maintainability. The contract, which includes spares and training for 60 personnel is worth about US$55 million. Austal believes that this contract will help redefine the whole concept of value-for-money in the global military and para-military patrol boat market. Previously, in order to get a well-built and equipped coastal patrol boat, buyers had to turn to a handful of long-established naval shipbuilders, such as those in Western . Europe. For many nations the vessels produced by these shipyards are well beyond the scope of the available budget, the company says. This has forced buyers to choose between acquiring antiquated, second- or third-hand vessels or a very cheap new vessel from a little-known supplier with poor credentials. Either strategy involves significant risks of non-performance because the vessels are often ill-suited to the intended role, unreliable and difficult to maintain.