Gemini Seaboats Contract for New Cape Class Patrol Boats

Sydney based company Britton Maritime Systems has been awarded a $9 million contract to build 12 Gemini inflatable seaboats for the new evolved Royal Australian Navy’s Cape Class Patrol Boats.

“The Gemini are specifically designed for the Cape Class vessels, and are already in operation with the current fleet of Navy’s Cape Class Patrol Boats,” Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said. 

The seaboats are the primary mission system for the Patrol Boats, providing an insertion capability for boarding and landing parties in support of operational requirements.Two seaboats will be delivered and fitted to each of the six evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats currently under construction at the Austal Shipyard in Western Australia.

“This Government is keeping Australians safe with our up to $183 billion Naval Shipbuilding Plan which will see more than 70 naval vessels built here in Australia, by Australian workers.This is the largest regeneration of the Navy since the Second World War, and delivers on this Government’s clear objective to build a globally competitive Australian shipbuilding enterprise,” Minister Reynolds said.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the Gemini seaboat acquisition would invest more than $6 million into local industry. The project will have up to 68 per cent Australian Industry Content.

Gemini boat design originates from Gemini Marine South Africa. Britton Maritime Systems was established in 1987 specialising in the manufacture, maintenance and integration of military, law enforcement and commercial craft. – shp/mgm (Photo: Britton Maritime)