Australian marine exporter awarded US Coast Guard contract
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Posted by Caroline Tung
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13 January, 2026
PORT Macquarie shipbuilder Birdon has been awarded a firm fixed price contract to build a small response boat (RB-S) demonstrator for the United States Coast Guard.
Under the contract, Birdon will deliver its RB-S to one of the designated USCG facilities in Norfolk, Virginia or Charleston, South Caroline, for a three-month operational evaluation period.
Birdon’s design was selected for its ability to meet stringent performance requirements.
Birdon Group president Tony Ardito said the contract was a result of the firm’s innovation in national defence.
“This award reflects Birdon’s dedication to supporting the US Coast Guard with cutting-edge solutions that enhance mission performance and crew safety,” he said.
“We are proud to contribute to the Coast Guard’s vital role in safeguarding our nation’s waterways.
“This award underscores Birdon’s commitment to providing its customers with innovative, reliable solutions that ensure mission success in maritime operations.”
The RB-S demonstrator program is a critical initiative by the USCG to evaluate advanced capabilities for key missions such as Search and Rescue (SAR); Ports, Waterways, and Coastal Security (PWCS).
These include US federal law enforcement measures including Drug Interdiction (DI), Migrant Interdiction (MI).
Founded in 1977, Birdon is an Australian-owned business with an operational footprint that includes Australia, the United States, Europe and Asia.
Birdon provides whole-of-life solutions across many sectors key to Australia’s security and prosperity.
The exporter has delivered on major projects for the Australian Navy, Australian Army, US Army, US Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and US. Navy.
It continues to supply end-to-end solutions for defence and commercial projects and exporting that capability worldwide, delivering for military, government and commercial customers.
The contact came after the US Coast Guard announced four contracts days earlier awarded to Birdon America, Inventech Marine Solutions, SAFE Boats International and Gravois Aluminium Boats.
