BMT targets global ship design growth with One2three acquisition 

Engineering and design consultancy BMT has acquired Australian naval architecture firm One2three Naval Architects. 

The acquisition strengthens BMT’s position in commercial and specialist vessel design, adding expertise in high-speed ferries, multihull vessels, autonomous technologies and battery-powered craft. The combined business aims to support increasingly complex vessel programmes across international markets. 

Founded in 2005 and based in Sydney, One2three Naval Architects has designed more than 300 vessels operating in over 30 countries. The company says it is known for its work in high-performance ferries, efficient hull form design and aluminium vessel structures, with projects spanning commercial ferries, para-military vessels, luxury yachts and electric-powered craft.

According to BMT, existing customer relationships, project teams and active programmes will continue unchanged following the acquisition, while clients will gain access to broader engineering resources and a larger international delivery network.

The company says the move strengthens its ability to support globally distributed shipbuilding programmes by providing greater access to engineering expertise across multiple regions, improving collaboration with shipyards and increasing responsiveness to customer requirements.

Graeme Nayler, regional business director for Asia-Pacific at BMT, believes the acquisition represents a long-term investment in maritime design capability, following the company’s earlier acquisition of AMT as part of its continued expansion across the region.

He says combining One2three’s experience in commercial and specialist vessel design with BMT’s global engineering and consultancy expertise will strengthen support for customers as shipbuilding programmes become increasingly international. Nayler adds that the acquisition will enhance the company’s ability to respond to growing demand for commercial shipbuilding and ferry projects, particularly in the US.

Steve Quigley, managing director of One2three Naval Architects, says joining BMT will allow the company to scale its vessel design expertise internationally while maintaining its customer-focused approach, plus access to BMT’s wider engineering network, artificial intelligence initiatives, technical expertise and lifecycle support will create new opportunities for both customers and employees.

The acquisition aligns with BMT’s long-term strategy to expand its global ship design business and meet growing demand for efficient, sustainable and technologically advanced vessel solutions across established and emerging markets.