Media Room: Media Releases

ARMY’S LANDING CRAFT MECHANISED (WATERCRAFT)

Defence has today suspended trials of the fleet of six Landing Craft Mechanised (LCM2000) watercraft pending further investigation into structural issues which became apparent during testing.

These watercraft are designed for use by Army to transfer personnel and supplies from ship to shore.

Defence is working with the builder, ADI Limited (trading as Thales Australia) to investigate the situation.

As a prudent safety precaution, testing of the watercraft has been suspended pending the outcome of the technical investigation.

CEO of the DMO, Dr Steven Gumley said, “The DMO is working closely with Thales to resolve this issue”.

There is no impact on Army watercraft capability as the LCM2000 fleet had yet to achieve operational status and is still under trial.

The Army watercraft capability will continue to be provided by the existing fleet of LCM8s.

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison (02) 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664

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