In a triumph for our world-class advanced manufacturing industry, Tasmanian company PFG will supply three 12.6 metre ultra-modern high-speed vessels to the Royal New Zealand Navy.
The Hobart-based manufacturer has secured the contract for ‘The Sentinel’ tactical watercraft, which is set to boost the military capability and defence of our region.
‘The Sentinel’ is the latest generation of fast, sophisticated, and impressively durable sea boats, heralding a step change in tactical watercraft capability.
Following in the ANZAC tradition, it is fantastic to have one of our most innovative Tasmanian companies working so closely with our cross-Tasman neighbours in defence-related activity.
PFG is a leader in multi-sector, technology-focused manufacturing business, with specialist skills and experience in the maritime industry. ‘The Sentinel’ leads the company’s first major foray into the defence arena.
PFG has been perfecting this vessel for 25 years, with more than 100 custom-built and fully tailored vessels already in operation with law enforcement and emergency response organisations, including Tasmania Police, Queensland Police and the Western Australian Department of Fire and Emergency Services.
Classed as a ‘Littoral Manoeuvre Craft’, the initial three ‘Sentinels’ will increase New Zealand’s capabilities in expeditionary reconnaissance, mine counter measures, ship to shore and inter-island transport, as well as logistic material transfer operations.
Manufacturing in Tasmania has been revitalised in recent years, and the Tasmanian Liberal Government has a clear plan to boost and support the industry to be world leaders of cutting-edge advanced manufacturing, as we secure Tasmania’s future.
That’s why we are providing an additional $10 million over four years to support advanced manufacturing and defence industries to collaborate, innovate, commercialise and scale up to create jobs and further opportunities for Tasmanian businesses.
Our Tasmanian Defence Industry Strategy was designed to increase opportunities for Tasmanian businesses in the defence sector, and contracts like this one between PFG and the New Zealand Government clearly shows our combined efforts are working.
More Media Releases from Jeremy Rockliff
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