The conversion involves the installation of a second hull internal to the ship which will reduce the risk of cargo spillage in the event of a serious incident.
It is intended that potential contractors selected in an Invitation to Register Interest, conducted in early 2009, may respond and contribute to this project.
The complex modifications will be undertaken to ensure the operational flexibility of the ship will not be impeded and worldís best practice for the protection of the marine environment is achieved.
The RAN is committed to exemplary environmental stewardship and will have a fully compliant double-hull tanker fleet when HMAS Success re-enters service after this conversion in 2011.
HMAS Sirius, converted from MT Delos, was commissioned in 2006 as the Navyís first double-hulled tanker.
Potential contractors for this conversion include both Australian and overseas shipyards, and in some cases Australian and overseas companies are planning to enter into a partnership.