The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has announced the selection of a new class of light landing craft, built by The Whiskey Project Group (TWPG), for integration with the in-service Pacific Support Vessel, ADV Reliant. Under the contract with the Sydney-based company, the RAN will receive two all-aluminium Landing Craft Light (LCL), with deliveries expected in the first half of 2025. The new LCLs represent a significant upgrade over the Navy’s existing Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP), often deployed on the sealift ship HMAS Choules and ADV Reliant. At 15.4 meters in length, the new craft is larger and more capable, offering enhanced performance and versatility. The LCL design is part of TWPG’s ‘Pioneer’ family of multi-purpose utility craft, known for their robust construction and versatile capabilities.
Powered by three 300hp diesel outboard motors, the LCL boasts superior seakeeping abilities and a top speed of 26 knots when fully loaded. This marks a notable improvement over the legacy craft, making the LCL one of the fastest and most efficient options available. It is designed to carry up to 4.5 tonnes of cargo, which can include a light vehicle, containerized stores, or up to 30 personnel. The LCL’s bi-fold bow ramp facilitates the transfer of cargo and personnel across various shoreline terrains and beach conditions, enhancing its operational flexibility. The construction of the first LCL is set to begin in August 2024 at TWPG’s yard in Yamba, located on the north coast of New South Wales.
The Whiskey Project Limited is an Australian made, veteran owned and operated company that develops operator-focused watercraft to provide optimal performance and protection for those who risk their lives in the maritime tactical environment. The Whiskey Project boats – the product of collaboration between experienced military operators and world class maritime engineers, architects and innovators – are designed for contemporary maritime missions. With vast tactical experience operating military watercraft along every coast of Australia, in the Middle East and the Pacific rims, The Whiskey Project team is comprised of uniquely skilled and dedicated maritime professionals.
This includes first-hand operations in Special Forces Maritime Counter Terrorism, open ocean ship boarding and inshore advanced force and amphibious operations. This in situ expertise in challenging maritime environments has provided our globally renowned design and build team with unique insights and innovation drivers for the design of operationally fit-for-purpose features that have never before been collectively integrated into a Defence-related tactical watercraft including the inclusion of the world’s most technically advanced powerboat hull. The Whiskey Project is the next generation of tactical watercraft, and the most meaningful innovation in tactical watercraft for decades.
