Sydney-based company, Britton Maritime Systems was awarded a $9 million contract to build 12 Gemini seaboats for the Australian Navy’s newest Cape-class patrol boats.
Australian Defence’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group’s head of maritime systems Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm said the contract was another example of Australian industry’s ability to support the National Naval Shipbuilding Enterprise.
Gemini seaboats were already in service with the current fleet of Navy Cape-class patrol boats and were a great example of what Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) could provide. The seaboats will be constructed in Australia while also utilising a vast local SME support network stretching from the east coast to the west coast.
The Gemini range is regarded as the most innovative range of military inflatables and RIBs(Rigid Inflatable Boats). Each Gemini RIB is built to achieve perfect hydrodynamic efficiency. Gemini hulls feature a true monocoque so the hydrodynamic efficiency of the monohedron shaped hull softens each ride and delivers teams anywhere in complete comfort and safety in even the most difficult conditions.
The Cape class is a ship class of 10 large patrol boats operated by the Marine Unit of the Australian Border Force and Royal Australian Navy. The ship can carry two 7.3 m (24 ft) Gemini RHIBs.