Charter of US Marine Corps Vessel Extended

Following a successful two month ‘proof of concept’ period for the recently chartered 101 metre high speed Theatre Support Vessel “WestPac Express”, Austal Limited has announced an extension of the charter period.

The US Marines have extended the current charter by one month with the probability of a further extension to 31 December 2001 to allow time to negotiate a long-term charter.

Austal’s Managing Director, Bob McKinnon said, “the 101 metre “WestPac Express” has exceeded expectations for the US Marine Corps and has successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of fast ferry application for the rapid deployment of troops and equipment.”