TENIX was announced as the prime contractor for the Royal New Zealand Navy’s “Project Protector”. This huge project involves the construction of seven new vessels for the RNZN including a 132 metre Multi-Purpose Vessel, two 85 metre Off Shore Patrol Vessels and four 55 metre In Shore Patrol Vessels. The In Shore Patrol Vessel or IPV was a modified version of the vessel proposed by TENIX for the RAN Replacement Patrol Boat design.
DMG was approached by TENIX to quickly re-build the second of the models of the RAN RPB into the modified design for the RNZN IPV and make it suitable to travel back and forth across the Tasman for various presentations which included an aluminium foam lined transit case to protect the model inside the display case.
The model was received and work began on stripping the model down to just leave the hull and basic superstructure modules. The hull was first modified with the addition of new re-positioned bilge keels and new stabilisers. Modification to the superstructure included a new mast, .50 cal machine gun platforms on each side and new sensors and aerial fit on the mast and top of the bridge structure.
The model was further modified with the addition of new Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIBS) of New Zealand design, new guard rails, HIAB Sea Cranes and other minor details. The model was painted in the RNZN standard paint scheme of “Camouflage Grey”, deep red undersides and dark grey side numbers.
Following delivery of the model to TENIX the model made front page news in New Zealand when it appeared with the New Zealand Government’s Finance and Defence Ministers at the contract signing at the Defence Headquarters in Wellington, NZ in September 2004.
Other models of this vessel and her “Project Protector” sister ships have now been completed for TENIX and can be viewed by clicking on the links below.
