Austal USA Awarded Top Security Clearance

(May 7, 2008) -- Austal USA has been awarded a facility clearance (FCL) by the US Department of Defence.

The proud achievement elevates Austal USA to a new level of US defence supplier, allowing the shipyard to Prime for future classified US Government shipbuilding projects.


The clearance was awarded after Austal USA successfully entered into a Special Security Agreement (SSA) with the US Government following a process spanning more than three years, in which the company had to satisfy strict criteria surrounding foreign ownership, control or influence.

As part of the process, an Austal USA Board - a subsidiary Board of Austal Limited - was established to allow the shipyard greater independence from its publicly owned Australian parent company.

Among those appointed to the subsidiary Board were high ranking ex US Defence personnel, including Rear Admiral James Hinkle, who had previously directed congressional liaison for the Navy, marketing multi-billion dollar defence programs in both House and Senate Armed Services Committees.

Austal USA Chief Executive Officer Bob Browning commented:

"This achievement recognises Austal's commitment to becoming a respected defence contractor in the USA. We are honoured to have this responsibility, which allows us to move forward with future defence shipbuilding opportunities."

Source : Austal Ltd.