Multidisciplinary construction and engineering services provider Civmec has entered into a binding agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in Luerssen Australia from NVL Australia (NVL).
As disclosed, the transaction will see the full ownership transfer of the Luerssen Australia business, including all assets, employees, and licences, subject to the satisfaction of conditions precedent.
The firm aims to strengthen Australia’s sovereign shipbuilding capability by consolidating design, construction, and operational knowledge under a single, locally owned entity, enhancing national resilience and supporting long-term defence industry growth.
NVL will support Civmec and the SEA1180 (Arafura-class) OPV program via a structured service level agreement to ensure continuity and stability post-completion, according to the company.
In 2018, Australia signed a contract with Luerssen Australia for the construction of ships. They will replace and improve upon the capability delivered by the 13 Armidale-class patrol boats by acquiring 12 new vessels. The primary role of the OPV will be to undertake constabulary missions, and the OPV will be the primary ADF asset for maritime patrol and response duties.
The Australian Department of Defense took delivery of the first Arafura-class OPV in January this year.
The parties are working towards a target completion date of July 1, 2025. The value of the deal is
The intent is, following the completion, that Luerssen Australia will be renamed Civmec Defence Industries, as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Civmec Limited.