Christchurch firms help with new Navy ships

Christchurch firms Rolls Royce Marine and Brown Brothers have won tenders to provide fin stabilisers, steering gear and pumps for the Navy's new Project Protector vessels. The firms have been subcontracted by Tenix Defence Pty Ltd.

"It's great news that Christchurch companies are involved with such a significant project for the New Zealand Defence Force," Wigram MP, Jim Anderton said.

"Rolls Royce Marine in Sydenham will design, supply and set to work the fin stabilisers and steering gear for the inshore and offshore patrol vessels. Brown Brothers in the city will supply pumps for lubrication, fuel oil and sludge for the offshore patrol vessel," Jim Anderton said.

Defence Minister Mark Burton officially marked the "first cut" metal milestone for the four Royal New Zealand Navy Project Protector Inshore Patrol Vessels being built in Whangarei last week.

Companies across New Zealand are involved in a project valued at over $170 million for the New Zealand economy. The government is spending a total of $500 million on seven new ships for the Royal New Zealand Navy – a multi role vessel, two offshore patrol vessels and the four inshore patrol vessels.

"Project protector is providing considerable local industry involvement across the country, supporting local employment and generating opportunities for a wide range of Kiwi companies.

"The Labour-Progressive Government is committed to supporting New Zealand employers to boost our international reputation for a highly skilled workforce producing high quality work.

"The construction, fit out and launch of the four Inshore Patrol Vessels will all be completed in Whangarei. They will be large and robust enough to cross rough, open, ocean waters between patrol areas," Jim Anderton said.

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