$7 million innovation investment in veteran-owned NSW company

The Morrison Government has invested $7.35 million in a veteran-owned NSW company’s project to support the development of its next-generation, high-performance watercraft.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price welcomed the investment in The Whiskey Project, one of the biggest from the Government’s Defence Innovation Hub.

“This sort of investment in Australian defence industry is critical to growing a sustainable and globally competitive sovereign defence industry,” Minister Price said. 

The Whiskey Project integrates cutting-edge technologies and a highly innovative hull form in the design of its new tactical watercraft. 

Existing forms of tactical watercraft, like Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIBs), are used by the Royal Australia Navy to provide high-speed interception and boarding capability.

The small maritime design and manufacturing firm’s watercraft will incorporate composite material technology and a novel ‘sea blade’ hull that provides enhanced stability, and reduced shock and vibration, that could be adapted to meet multiple Defence needs. 

“This investment will support The Whiskey Project’s development of local naval design and manufacturing know-how that translates to an advantage for the Australian Defence Force and strengthens our performance in maritime operations,” Minister Price said.

“Investments like this are an example of the Morrison Government’s commitment to nurturing Australian defence innovation, while supporting veteran-owned businesses who bring the expertise and experience to solve Defence’s tactical and strategic challenges.” 

Industry and research organisations can submit innovation proposals through the Defence Innovation Portal at www.innovationhub.defence.gov.au

Imagery can be accessed at: https://images.defence.gov.au/S20211228