Tasmanian manufacturer Pivot Maritime International has entered the US defence market with a USD $1.75 million deal to supply portable simulators to the US Navy, aided by government-backed trade missions.
Premier and Minister for Trade and Major Investment, Jeremy Rockliff, commended Pivot’s achievement, highlighting the critical role of government support in facilitating such opportunities.
“This contract is a great example of where a government can play a role to open the door, advocate, and then allow Tasmanian industry to do what they do best – walk through that door and deliver an outstanding product and capability that our Defence Allies around the world seek,” Rockliff said.
He added that the deal underscores Tasmania’s growing reputation for delivering world-class products and services, aligning with the state’s 2030 Strong Plan for Future economic resilience and diversification.
Pivot Maritime International’s Managing Director, Dr Jeff Hawkins, acknowledged the challenging journey to establish a foothold in the US market, emphasising the importance of collaboration between industry and government.
“We have been pursuing the US market for several years and we have been able to demonstrate our simulation technology to key US defence stakeholders at domestic and US trade shows,” Dr Hawkins said.
The US Navy will deploy Pivot’s simulators for training and assessment, enhancing navigators’ capabilities using real-time navigation equipment.
Premier Rockliff reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering Tasmanian business growth.
“The Tasmanian Liberal Government will continue to stand right alongside our businesses as we champion their success,” he said.
The government stated that Pivot’s technologies and systems are now utilised by various navies worldwide, including the Royal Australian Navy, the Royal New Zealand Navy, and the US Navy’s Military Sealift Command.
