Austal Australasia has been awarded a significant contract by Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden to design and construct a cutting-edge, hydrogen-ready high-speed vehicle passenger ferry as part of the Horizon X programme. This ferry, set to be the largest vessel ever built by Austal, will incorporate a unique combined cycle propulsion system that includes both gas and steam turbines, marking a groundbreaking development for high-speed craft globally. With the capacity to accommodate 1,500 passengers, cargo, and 400 vehicles, the multi-fuel catamaran will be constructed using green aluminum at the Austal Philippines shipyard, with construction scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026 and completion targeted for mid-2028. Austal's CEO expressed great excitement for the Horizon X project, emphasizing its potential to redefine commercial ferry capabilities with a focus on sustainability. The vessel's innovative design encompasses a multi-fuel and hydrogen-capable combined cycle powerplant, reflecting the company's commitment to decarbonizing commercial ferries. Gotlandsbolaget's CEO also highlighted the collaborative efforts with Austal, underscoring the vessel's sustainability features and its role in achieving climate-neutral operations. The development of the hydrogen-ready ferry aligns with the partners' strategy to integrate advanced green technology, including a highly efficient gas turbine propulsion system, while using lightweight green aluminum and advanced hydrodynamic design to minimize fuel consumption and emissions. The project, initiated in April 2023, signifies a significant step towards environmentally responsible transportation, particularly in serving the island of Gotland and the Swedish mainland. Horizon X represents a pivotal milestone in realizing the mission of climate-neutral operations and underscores the commitment to sustainability in maritime transportation.