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Australian maritime engineering firm Birdon has further strengthened its international standing as a trusted defence solutions provider, securing a major contract with the United States Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory.
The agreement will see Birdon deliver two prototype vessels showcasing its cutting-edge Ancillary Surface Connector-Medium (ASC-M) design, a crucial step in shaping the future of amphibious warfare under the USMC’s Force Design 2030 initiative.
The Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL) selected Birdon following a competitive process, recognising the ASC-M’s advanced capabilities and adaptability to meet the evolving operational requirements of the US Marine Corps. The vessels will serve as demonstrators to inform the development of next-generation tactics, capabilities and procedures for amphibious operations.
Birdon CEO Jamie Bruce said the ASC-M was engineered specifically for high performance and versatility in demanding conditions. “Our team of specialist naval architects and engineers designed this vessel from scratch, incorporating advanced sonar and fuel systems to maximise operational effectiveness,” he said.
To support the prototyping effort, Birdon has partnered with C&C Marine and Repair, based in Belle Chasse, Louisiana. Construction of the first vessel is set to commence in June 2025 at C&C’s modern shipbuilding facility near New Orleans, with delivery expected by June 2026. The partnership reflects Birdon’s focus on rapid capability delivery and collaborative defence manufacturing.
C&C Marine’s facilities are optimised for building flat-bottomed craft like the ASC-M, with advanced automation systems in place to ensure efficient production timelines. Bruce noted that the selection of C&C was driven by both capability and strategic fit. “C&C’s infrastructure and proximity to our New Orleans operations make them the ideal partner. Their scalability ensures we can meet future demand if required,” he said.
The ASC-M will be capable of transporting up to 40 embarked troops and 54 tonnes of cargo. Its shallow draft ensures superior manoeuvrability and stability, particularly during long-range transits and amphibious landings. To enhance beaching safety, Birdon collaborated with a specialist sonar company to develop and integrate a forward-looking sonar system. This technology enables the craft to detect underwater obstacles and evaluate beach gradients in advance – surpassing the capabilities of existing landing craft.
Further showcasing its commitment to homegrown innovation, Birdon also worked with an Australian partner to design an advanced fuel delivery and transfer system. This feature allows for efficient vessel-to-vessel fuel exchange, extending the operational range and flexibility of maritime missions in austere environments.
The US Marine Corps contract marks a significant milestone in Birdon’s international defence portfolio and further solidifies its role as a critical partner to both Australian and American defence forces. With over 750 employees and 11 facilities globally, Birdon continues to deliver innovative maritime solutions that advance national security and operational capability.
