A Request for Tender will be released to acquire new Air Drop Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats for Australia’s Special Forces providing a new capability for maritime counter terrorist and military operations.

Defence Minister Robert Hill said the Federal Government will release the RFT to Australian Industry by mid October 2005.

"The new air drop inflatable boats will improve our Special Forces’ capacity to intercept potential threats at greater distances," Senator Hill said.

"This improved security capability will provide additional protection to Australia’s maritime environment, including offshore oil and gas assets and other critical infrastructure.

"The tender will be to acquire ten new air drop boats which increase the number of boats currently available to the Special Forces on Australia’s East and West coasts and replace other non-air drop Special Forces boats.

"This project will further boost the newly created Commando Battalion and Tactical Assault Group and the Special Air Service Regiment’s counter terrorism capabilities on the East and West coasts respectively.

"The new Air Drop Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats will be deployed from RAAF C130 Hercules aircraft through a parachute deployment system and will significantly increase the ability of our special forces to cover large distances in a short amount of time."

"Australia’s Special Forces are considered amongst the most capable Special Forces in the world and recent initiatives have significantly strengthened Australia’s domestic and offshore security capabilities."

The Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats and their support equipment will complement other initiatives that the Government has already introduced to improve the capabilities of Australia’s Special Forces in confronting the threat of terrorism.

In addition to being able to operate autonomously, the new Air drop rigid hull inflatable boats may be deployed from Navy’s amphibious ships and RAAF aircraft.