Austal finalizes deal for Timor Leste PPB pair

Australian shipbuilder Austal has finalized the contract for two Guardian-class Pacific Patrol Boats (PPB) to be built for Timor Leste.

As informed, the additional contract is worth A$29.7 million and increases the total program from 19 to 21 vessels.

The potential for the extension to the existing PPB contract was first announced last year and has now been formally signed with Austal.

The PPB program creates intergovernmental cooperation to aid regional security in the South Pacific by helping to secure maritime borders in that region.

“The first PPB is on schedule for launch at the end of May with construction of the following two vessels already well underway with the fourth vessel commencing construction in June,” David Singleton, Austal CEO, said.

The PPB contract was awarded to Austal in May 2016 and is worth A$305 million for the original 19 vessels and associated in-service support.