Austal Australia has been awarded a significant contract valued between A$265 and A$275 million to design and build a 130-meter high-speed passenger vehicle ferry for Gotlandsbolaget in Sweden. This ferry, part of Gotlandsbolaget's 'Horizon X' initiative, will be the largest vessel ever constructed by Austal and will showcase a state-of-the-art combined cycle propulsion system capable of utilizing hydrogen as fuel. The innovative propulsion system, integrating gas and steam turbines, will be a first in the world for high-speed vessels, aiming to enhance fuel efficiency and support decarbonisation efforts in the maritime industry. The ferry will be equipped to operate on multiple fuel types, including hydrogen, and will be constructed using 'green aluminium,' a sustainable material produced through energy-efficient processes. With a capacity for 1,500 passengers and 400 vehicles, the vessel aims to revolutionize sustainable transportation in the maritime sector. Construction of this groundbreaking ferry is set to commence in the first half of 2026 at Austal's shipyard in the Philippines, with an estimated completion date in mid-2028. The CEO of Austal highlighted the project's significance in advancing sustainable ferry transportation, emphasizing the importance of multi-fuel capabilities and advanced design for emission reduction and high-speed performance. Gotlandsbolaget, operating ferries between Gotland and mainland Sweden, expressed enthusiasm for the project, citing its alignment with the company's mission of climate and environmentally responsible operations. The collaboration with technology providers and the vessel's compliance with international safety standards mark key milestones in this innovative development. Overall, the hydrogen-powered ferry represents a major step towards achieving climate-neutral operations and promoting sustainable practices in the maritime industry.