Austal Limited's subsidiary, Austal Australasia, has been awarded a significant contract valued between A$265 and A$275 million by Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden for the development of a cutting-edge 130-meter combined cycle, 'hydrogen-ready' vehicle passenger ferry. This project, known as 'Horizon X,' marks a pioneering venture in the ferry industry, as it introduces a high-speed ROPAX catamaran equipped with a groundbreaking combined cycle propulsion system that integrates gas and steam turbines, a first for vessels of this kind. With a remarkable capacity to carry up to 1,500 passengers, various cargo types, and 400 vehicles, the 'Horizon X' ferry is set to be a game-changer in terms of efficiency and sustainability. Construction is scheduled to commence at the Austal Philippines shipyard in the first half of CY2026, using 'green aluminum' production processes to reduce carbon footprint. The CEO of Austal Limited, Paddy Gregg, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its role in advancing the decarbonization of commercial ferries through innovative fuel technologies and a hydrogen-capable powerplant. Similarly, Gotlandsbolaget's CEO, Håkan Johansson, emphasized the vessel's sustainability features, including a highly efficient gas turbine propulsion system ready for hydrogen integration. The collaboration between Austal and Gotlandsbolaget aims to revolutionize ferry operations by prioritizing environmentally friendly practices and cutting-edge technology. Notably, the project has received preliminary approval from DNV, ensuring compliance with regulations regarding gas-fueled ship installations, including hydrogen, and reinforcing the commitment to sustainable shipbuilding practices.