Austal to begin building in Philippines

Construction of a 27.4m wind farm vessel at the yard, in the West Cebu Industrial Park in Balamban, Cebu, will commence in the first quarter of this year, and provide work through to November. Austal says it is currently making significant investments to further enhance the shipyard’s capabilities.

Austal COO Asia, Greg Jason, said: “The $5million enhancement programme is well underway, utilising local employees and contractors. Recruitment has commenced for approximately 70 staff and that process has confirmed that the existing pool of local tradespeople is of high quality and has highly relevant experience in building similar vessels”.

Future workforce growth is expected in line with market demand, and the site allows for expansion when future operational and market conditions require.

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”.

The 27.4m long, 10.5m wide vessel is being built for Turbine Transfers, an existing Austal customer operating in the growing European offshore wind farm industry. The new vessel is designed to operate in ocean areas of all European countries, including the demanding conditions of the North, Irish and Baltic Seas.

With the Philippines yard gearing up to take on commercial vessels, Austal’s Henderson facility is preparing to commence manufacturing of the Cape class patrol boats for the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. The eight vessels will be delivered between March 2013 and August 2015. Austal’s US shipbuilding operation remains busy with two multi-ship projects for the US Navy.