Austal Philippines, a subsidiary of Austal Ltd., is set to design and build a custom vessel for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to enhance patrols in the West Philippine Sea.
During the Australian Business Briefing with the media, Wayne Murray, Austal PH’s president and general manager shared that the company is laying out plans to make the vessel developments a more suitable one for the Philippines.
Although a formal deal between PCG and Austal Philippines has not yet been finalized, the firm hopes to progress the vessel plans within the next six months.
“No firm contracts at the moment, but we’re working with a technical team to establish a vessel suitable for the requirements,” Murray said.
Part of the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) includes funding to purchase three offshore patrol ships for PCG to defend the West Philippine Sea from maritime tensions.
“Australians are more on water protection… While that’s a requirement, this [ship development] is custom-made for the Philippines,” he added.
Moving towards sustainability
Besides plans on building vessels for the Coast Guard, Austal PH eyes a greener approach in ship fuel.
“What does the next fuel look like? Because diesel is the most favorable fuel right now… We are looking at a hydrogen fuel-powered vessel,” Murray said. “We have to look at what the future would look like.”
Hydrogen is considered a clean energy that is alternative to methane gas. Hydrogen fuel can be produced for vehicle use, electricity generation, and industrial energy. This renewable energy could also minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
Meanwhile, Austal PH also disclosed a wind-powered vessel that is targeted to travel around the Atlantic.
“It’s going to be a green vessel and will be delivered to the Philippines,” Austal chief shared.
In over a decade of its operations, Austal PH has completed 21 commercial vessels for 13 operators from 11 countries including multiple ferries. The firm also constructs naval ships like patrol vessels for domestic and international fleets.