The Australian Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) has begun parallel negotiations with two tenderers, Birdon and DMS Maritime, for the refit and support of Pacific patrol boats.

DMS Maritime was the preferred bidder and was awarded the Pacific patrol boat support and third refit services contract on 1 October 2010.

The decision to reopen the bidding follows an independent internal review after a tenderer complained regarding the initial tender process and is in accordance with the defence procurement policy guidelines.

The tender is to provide support for 19 Pacific patrol boats given to Pacific island countries to patrol their exclusive economic zones, and conduct search and rescue operations and disaster relief.

BAE Systems, the current contractor, will provide support to the boats until the new contract is awarded.