NZ Defence Force awards contract for patrol vessel upgrades

A newly formed partnership between Babcock and the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) will conduct maintenance and upgrade works on two decommissioned Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) inshore patrol vessels before they are sold to the Republic of Ireland.

Babcock and the NZDF will regenerate and modify the Lake-class patrol vessels ex-HMNZS Rotoiti and ex-HMNZS Pukaki to operational seaworthiness standards with support from Babcock’s extensive supply chain across the New Zealand marine and defence industry.

Babcock Australasia Managing Director Defence, Andy Davis, said the company will partner with up to 30 local businesses on the upgrade project, which will see a range of contracts with a total value of approximately NZ$15 million.

The scope of works will include overhaul of the main and auxiliary engines, docking of both vessels for hull preservation, propeller and rudder overhaul, inspection, service, and commissioning of all electric, mechanical, hydraulic and communication systems, required to return the vessels to Lloyd’s Class.

Additional activities include modifying the vessels so they are compatible with the equipment fit of the current Irish Naval fleet.

Built in Whangarei and commissioned into the navy in 2009, the two ships have been deployed on search and rescue, fishery monitoring, border security and maritime surveillance operations around New Zealand’s 15,000-kilometres coastline.

The NZDF expects the two ships to be delivered to Ireland in April 2023.