Request for tender issued for Australia’s OPV project

Australia’s multi-billion dollar offshore patrol vessel project has released the request for tender to the three shortlisted designers.

The Minister for Defence Industry, Christopher Pyne, said the request for tender will see Damen, Fassmer and Luerssen team up with Australian shipbuilders.

“We want to ensure the tenderers’ responses maximise Australian industry opportunities through a local build using Australian made steel,” said Minister Pyne.

“The request for tender will require each tenderer to develop an ‘Australian Industry Capability Plan’ that maximises the opportunities for Australian industry participation.

“This includes how they will transition their existing supply chains to Australian supply chains and how they will integrate local suppliers in their global supply chains.

“The project is expected to create around 400 direct jobs and is part of the government’s commitment to the continuous build of warships in Australia.”

The Minister for Defence, Marise Payne, said the project is on track with construction starting in Adelaide in 2018 before moving to Western Australia in 2020.

“The 12 new offshore patrol vessels will enhance our border protection and patrol missions by providing greater reach and endurance than the existing Armidale-class patrol boat fleet,” Minister Payne said.

The project is part of the government’s $89 billion (US$66 billion) investment in naval ships and submarines over the next 20 years.