Adelaide-based Rowlands Metalworks has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Raytheon Anschuetz for the supply of navigational bridge consoles for the nine ship SEA 5000 future frigate build for the RAN.

Rowlands says the deal marks a major milestone for the local SA company and an exciting window to potentially further develop international partnerships and opportunities.

“We’ve been in operation for more than 60 years now, supporting a broad range of industries and sectors and are delighted with the opportunity we can see to reach further into the defence industry with this deal,” Managing Director, Cameron Johnston said in a statement.

“There’s no doubt the South Australian defence industry is on the cusp of some very exciting times and we will now be well placed to make the most of the growth in the sector here in SA.”

Rowlands said the company had undergone an rigorous evaluation by Raytheon Anchuetz of their systems, capabilities and international competitiveness as part of their bid to secure the MoU.

“The fact that they can see that we can deliver in line with their stringent expectations around quality and consistency is a fabulous testament to our team that we can mix it with the best,” Johnson added.

“We’re really looking forward to growing this part of the business and we can see tangible growth and returns for South Australia.”

Rowlands currently has a staff of 45, but is looking to expand that number by at least 50 per cent to meet the new opportunity. Construction is expected to start immediately after the contract is finalised in the coming months.