Austal get busy building in the Philippines

The recently acquired shipyard in West Cebu in Balamban will help to regionalise Austal’s manufacturing base for commercial vessels.

The company is currently investing in improving the shipyard’s capabilities.

The first contract being undertaken at the shipyard is the new contract with Turbine Transfers for a new 27m Wind Farm Support Vessel (WFSV) bound for operations in Europe – specifically the harsh conditions of the North, Baltic and Irish seas.

Austal’s chief operating officer in Asia, Greg Jason, said: “The combination of the new design and new manufacturing location shows how Austal is applying its existing knowledge and expertise to develop emerging markets.”

Whilst the new manufacturing facility in the Philippines will be focusing on the manufacture of commercial vessels, Austal’s Henderson facility is due to commence building eight Cape Class Patrol Boats for the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. The vessels are due for delivery through March 2013 and August 2015.

Meanwhile, Austal’s US shipbuilding operation is busy with two multi ship projects for the US Navy.