Local New Zealand businesses are set to reap the benefits of a partnership between Babcock and the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) which will conduct maintenance and upgrade works on two decommissioned Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) Inshore Patrol Vessels before they are sold to the Republic of Ireland.
Babcock and NZDF will regenerate and modify the ships – ex HMNZS Rotoiti and HMNZS Pukaki – to operational seaworthiness standards, supported by Babcock’s extensive supply chain across the New Zealand marine and defence industry.
Broader economic outcomes
Babcock Australasia Managing Director Defence, Andy Davis, said: “We will partner with up to 30 local businesses to deliver this project, through a range of contracts with a total value of approximately NZ$15 million.”
“Our trusted suppliers and subcontractors are a key part of our capability and they will play a critical role on this project as another great demonstration of what New Zealand industry can achieve together. This work demonstrates how the NZDF and Babcock partnership is focussed on building long-term collaborative relationships with New Zealand businesses. This will continue to deliver broader economic outcomes and provide increasing access to government defence work for these supporting businesses.”
Irish naval service
Babcock has a long history of working with the Irish Naval Service
The scope of works will include an overhaul of main and auxiliary engines, docking of both vessels for hull preservation, propeller and rudder overhaul, inspection, service, and commissioning of all-electric, mechanical, hydraulic, and communication systems, required to return the vessels to Lloyds Class.
Additional activities include modifying the vessels so they are compatible with the equipment fit of the current Irish naval fleet. Babcock has a long history of working with the Irish Naval Service, having built the P60 Samuel Beckett Class of Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).
Maritime surveillance operations
Babcock International CEO, David Lockwood said: “Working with two partner navies on opposite sides of the globe, to deliver improved outcomes for both is the very essence of Babcock; we are proud to be helping create a safe and secure world, together.”
Built-in Whangarei and commissioned into the Navy in 2009, during their service the two ships have been deployed on search and rescue, fishery monitoring, border security, and maritime surveillance operations around New Zealand’s 15,000km coastline. NZDF expects the two ships to be delivered to Ireland in April 2023.