VEEM Limited nnounce it has received an order from BAE Systems Australia for the manufacture of demonstrator blades and hubs for the Hunter Class Frigate Program (HCFP). VEEM successfully delivered the pilot project in early 2022, thus completing the first `targeted task' in qualifying as a supplier to Kongsberg Maritime. Upon successful completion of the new Demonstrator Project, VEEM would be one of only two suppliers globally for the T26 Global Combat Ship.

The T26 is the reference ship design for the Hunter class frigate. The purpose of the $1.7 million order - known as a `targeted task` is to enable VEEM to formally demonstrate it has the propeller manufacturing capability to deliver into the HCFP supply chain. VEEM is a world leader in premium commercial propellers and has delivered similar blades to defence clients globally.

Under the guidance of Kongsberg Maritime, one of the platform suppliers for the T26 Global Combat Ship, VEEM will manufacture two propeller blades and a hub. Success with this project could lead to the export of equipment for other naval shipbuilding programs around the world, including other T26 programs. In the coming months, BAE Systems Australia is expected to issue a `request for proposal' for the propeller and brake blade manufacture for the first batch of three Hunter class frigates. Contract award is anticipated in 2024/5.