Tenix Defence (Australia) will build two 56-metre search and rescue vessels and four 35-metre high-speed search and rescue vessels for the Coast Guard, with an option for 10 more 35-metre vessels, under a contract worth up to US$150m. The go-ahead for six new search and rescue vessels for the Philippine Coast Guard confirms Tenix Defence as Australia’s leading patrol boat constructor, said Tenix Group Managing Director Paul Salteri.

During 2000, Tenix delivered two search and rescue vessels to the Philippine Coast Guard. Engineered for rapid response in the event of a maritime emergency, the SAR vessels are equipped for recovery of survivors, co-ordination of rescue operations and support of a helicopter. The vessel’s design has attracted strong interest from other military and paramilitary organisations in the Asia Pacific Region, Europe and the Middle East.

“The second Philippine Coast Guard contract confirms Tenix Defence’s position as Australia’s leading patrol boat builder,” Mr. Salteri said. “Our experience in designing, constructing and supporting these vessels, and other vessels operating in similar conditions, has been incorporated into our bid for replacement of Australia’s patrol boat fleet, which includes a hull based on the Philippines ships. We are confident we can also deliver the best replacement patrol boat for the Royal Australian Navy, incorporating the performance, support, value and innovation which Tenix boats have proven in service,” Mr. Salteri said.