Program Overview
Birdon was awarded a contract by the NSW Police Force to design, construct and deliver seven Class 2 Patrol Vessels to replace an aging fleet and enhance maritime law enforcement capabilities across New South Wales. The vessels are designed for coastal and inland waterway patrols, with accommodation for extended missions of up to three days at sea.
Quick Facts
- Client
NSW Police Force
- Location
Port Macquarie, NSW & Singapore (Penguin Shipyard)
- Lifecycle Stage
Design and Build
- Asset
Seven Class 2 Patrol Vessels
- Timeline
Commenced construction March 2018 – final vessel delivered in July 2019
Objectives
- Replace aging NSW Police patrol fleet
- Enhance maritime law enforcement capabilities
- Deliver vessels with extended range, speed and crew comfort
- Ensure high Australian content and supportability
- Achieving high-speed performance with reduced vessel weight
- Ensuring crew comfort for multi-day missions
Challenges
- Meeting strict NSW Police Force operational and budgetary requirements
- Coordinating international fabrication and local completion
- Integrating advanced marine electronics and safety systems
Birdon’s Approach
Birdon acted as the Prime Contractor, overseeing the design through to the delivery. Southerly Designs was engaged for the base design, with Birdon developing all production design details to meet NSW Police Force budget and schedule requirements.
Fabrication was undertaken at Penguin Shipyard International in Singapore, with final completion and handover in Australia. Birdon deployed key program personnel, including a Major Project Manager, to Singapore to manage daily operations and ensure quality control.
All major equipment was sourced in Australia and shipped to Singapore, supporting high local content and ensuring long-term supportability following delivery.
Outcomes & Impact
The program delivered a modern, capable patrol fleet that strengthens maritime law enforcement and operational readiness across New South Wales waterways.
- Delivery of seven vessels within 18 months
- High Australian content and local supportability
- Successful international delivery through coordinated dual-site production
Capabilities in Action
- Naval architecture tailored to NSW Police Force operational needs
- Integration of propulsion and control systems
- Customisation for crew accommodation, workspace and mission-specific equipment
- Improved safety and reliability through enhanced bow access, larger engine rooms and 360° visibility
