Harland & Wolff partners with Austal Australia for next gen patrol vessels of UK.

According to information published by Harland & Wolff on November 16, 2023, the firm has partnered with Austal Australia, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the 2023 Indo Pacific Maritime Exposition in Sydney.
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Signature of the MoU in front of a model of the Lethal Cape Class patrol boat during Indo Pacific 2023 International Maritime Exposition. (Picture source: Austal Australia)

This collaboration aims to enhance aluminium shipbuilding, focusing on the next generation of patrol vessels for the United Kingdom's maritime security agencies.

The MOU encompasses the transfer of technology, skills, and shipyard capabilities, positioning the partnership for opportunities such as the UK Border Force vessel replacement program. The collaboration leverages Austal's expertise in aluminium patrol boat design and Harland & Wolff's established presence in the maritime defense industry.

UK Border Force vessel replacement program

The UK's Border Force vessel replacement program is part of a £700 million investment aimed at enhancing the safety of Britain's borders. This program involves replacing ageing Border Force vessels with new cutters.

The current fleet, averaging 20 years in age, will be retired, and 11 new vessels will be introduced at a cost of £74 million. These new vessels are intended to bolster efforts in tackling organized crime and illegal migration.