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Hobart-based Liferaft Systems Australia has been contracted by BAE Systems Maritime Australia to supply its world-leading Marine Evacuation Systems for the Royal Australian Navy’s Hunter Class frigate program.
Under the agreement, each of the first three anti-submarine warfare frigates will be fitted with four Marine Evacuation Systems units, each capable of accommodating 115 people once deployed. Delivery is scheduled between 2026 and 2031.
Liferaft Systems Australia (LSA), a Tasmanian small-to-medium enterprise, is no stranger to the program. The company is already supplying the same equipment to the Royal Navy’s eight Type 26 frigates in the United Kingdom. This existing work allows the Hunter Class program to make use of proven testing and certification, delivering cost and schedule benefits.
The contract builds on Tasmania’s growing defence industry presence. More than 60 organisations across the state are pursuing opportunities in the sector, with local companies securing over AU$500 million in Defence contracts in the past five years.
Paul Berryman, acting managing director of BAE Systems Maritime Australia, welcomed LSA to the Hunter program, saying, “The Liferaft team bring world-class knowledge to the Osborne Naval Shipyard and have been delivering critical evacuation systems to navies worldwide for decades.
“Through the Hunter program, we’re maximising opportunities for Australian industry to contribute to the defence supply chain, ensuring our nation builds and sustains a continuous naval shipbuilding capability.”
LSA managing director Mike Grainger said the partnership reinforced a long-standing relationship with BAE Systems, adding, “This contract highlights the capability of Tasmanian industry to deliver globally approved, locally manufactured systems.”
Grainger said, “Our Marine Evacuation Systems are designed and built entirely in Hobart, employing Tasmanians and supporting the local economy. We see strong potential to grow this relationship further, not only in Australia but internationally, generating valuable export opportunities.”
The first Hunter Class frigate is due to enter service in the early 2030s.
