Austal Unveils HSV-M

Austal Unveils HSV-M Austal Ships has released details of one of its advanced military platforms to the global defence industry. Developed in response to existing naval requirements and incorporating advanced hull and propulsion technology, the Austal High Speed Vessel – Multipurpose (HSV–M) is just one example of the potential effectiveness of high-speed vessels for future naval and other military roles. The surge in military interest in large high speed craft is evidenced by United States defence organizations contracting four such vessels in the last 20 months, and a number of major projects in the pipeline. This includes the US Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) project, which may eventually require 60 ships, and the US Army’s upcoming Theater Support Vessel program. Austal’s new HSV–M design is based on the company’s 101 metre catamaran platform which has proved to be a great success in both commercial and military roles, including the Theatre Support Vessel “WestPac Express” currently operating with great success for the US Marines. The Austal HSV–M has been designed from the keel up to meet military requirements for a highly capable and multi-purpose platform. For example, the military vessel incorporates a significant increase in structural strength in the bow and tunnel areas, enabling it to operate at higher speeds in more extreme sea conditions than a typical fast ferry.