Sentinel Boats recently received the highest honour in the New Zealand Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence to Industry. The awards recognise the contributions made by industry to the New Zealand Defence Force, with Sentinel named Prime Contractor of the Year for its delivery of three highly specialised Sentinel 1250 Littoral Manoeuvre Craft (LMC). The same vessels recently won the 2023 award for best “Innovative Patrol Boat” in the internationally recognised Baird Maritime Awards.
The LMCs were designed in close collaboration with the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) to carry out expeditionary reconnaissance and dive operations from the HMNZS Manawanui. The RNZN has been exceptionally pleased with the performance of the vessels, which are custom built from high density polyethylene (HDPE).
Sentinel Boats CEO, George McGuire said the win solidifies Sentinel’s presence in the defence industry. “Our boats have been tested in the most demanding operational environments and have consistently outperformed all expectations,” McGuire said. “This award is a testament to the extraordinary work and dedication of the Sentinel Boats team and the importance of close collaboration with the end-user during all stages of the design and build process.”
The design from One2Three naval architects, focuses on speed and durability while also being adaptable to a range of mission profiles. The 1250 LMCs boast twin Cummins diesel engines which are coupled with Hamilton Het water jets, propelling the vessels to speeds over 40 knots. The LMCs are also able to launch a smaller 5.3m RHIB from the rear of the boat, allowing even more versatility on the water.
McGuire said the Sentinel 1250 showcased the unique qualities of HDPE as a next generation boat-building material – imparting extreme durability and class-leading safety and handling characteristics even in the roughest waters. “We are absolutely thrilled that our vessels have been so readily accepted and loved by the RNZN, which has furthered our strong partnership,” McGuire said. “We hope this international recognition of Sentinel Boats’ exceptional design and cutting-edge boat building techniques will unlock further opportunities in the defence sector, in Australia and with our global allies.”
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