BMT expands global ship design capabilities with acquisition of Australian naval architect One2three

The acquisition brings together two complementary design organisations, strengthening BMT’s ability to support complex shipbuilding programs across international markets while expanding its expertise in high-performance ferries, autonomous systems, advanced vessel technologies and sustainable maritime solutions.

Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Sydney, One2three Naval Architects has developed an international reputation for innovative vessel design, delivering more than 300 vessels across more than 30 countries.

The company is recognised globally for its expertise in efficient hull form development and high-performance ferry design, with its portfolio spanning commercial ferries, para-military vessels, luxury yachts, multihull craft and battery-electric vessels.

The integration of One2three’s specialist capabilities will enhance BMT’s existing ship design offering by providing customers with access to a larger global engineering network, expanded technical resources, and deeper expertise across a wider range of maritime sectors.

BMT said existing customer relationships, delivery teams, and active projects would continue without disruption, while the combined organisation would provide greater support for shipyards, operators, and maritime authorities seeking advanced vessel solutions.

The acquisition forms part of BMT’s broader strategy to grow its global ship design capability and respond to increasing demand for efficient, sustainable and technologically advanced vessels across established and emerging maritime markets.

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With commercial shipbuilding, ferry infrastructure and specialist vessel requirements expanding worldwide, the combined expertise of BMT and One2three positions the company to support increasingly complex and geographically distributed vessel programs.

Graeme Nayler, Asia-Pacific regional business director at BMT, said the acquisition represented a significant investment in maritime design capability and innovation.

“Over more than three decades, One2three has built a formidable reputation in commercial and specialist vessel design, including world-leading work in high-speed aluminium ferries and advanced multihull craft,” Nayler said.

“Bringing that expertise into BMT, alongside our global engineering, consultancy and life cycle heritage, strengthens the way we support customers as vessel programs become more complex and internationally connected.”

Nayler said the acquisition would further strengthen BMT’s Asia-Pacific presence following its previous acquisition of Australian maritime technology company AMT, while improving its ability to support growing shipbuilding markets, including increasing demand for ferry and commercial vessel capability in the United States.

One2three managing director Steve Quigley said joining BMT would provide new opportunities to expand the company’s international reach while maintaining its focus on high-performance vessel design.

“Access to BMT’s broader international engineering network, AI initiatives, technical knowledge and life cycle support creates significant growth opportunities for our people, our customers and the markets we support,” Quigley said.

The acquisition strengthens BMT’s position as a globally connected maritime design organisation, combining local expertise with international scale to deliver next-generation commercial and specialist vessel solutions.

As the maritime sector transitions towards greater efficiency, electrification, autonomy, and advanced digital engineering, the partnership between BMT and One2three is expected to play a growing role in shaping the future of vessel design.

Stephen Kuper

Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.