Duratec Ertech JV wins $281M defence upgrade

The Duratec Ertech joint venture has been awarded a $281 million contract by the Department of Defence.

The project focuses on critical upgrades at HMAS Stirling, specifically targeting the Diamantina Wharf at Garden Island, Western Australia.

The development is a foundational step in preparing the facility to support future submarine capabilities and the upcoming rotational presence of United States and United Kingdom forces under the AUKUS partnership.

The announcement marks the successful conclusion of the early contractor involvement planning phase, allowing the DEJV—a 50:50 partnership between Duratec (ASX:DUR) and Ertech—to transition into the full delivery stage.

While the main works are slated for a 24-month duration, momentum is already high; early on-site works valued at $9.2 million commenced in January, alongside the procurement of $5 million in long-lead items.

With the final design now approved, the total value of the works is projected to reach just under $300 million.

Duratec Managing Director Chris Oates described the award as a "significant milestone", emphasising the strength of the joint venture’s ECI approach.