Intermarine therefore teamed with A.D.l. (Australian Defence Industries) with the purpose of submitting a joint proposal, with the understanding that ADI would have been the prime contractor and intermarine the Design Authority, responsible also of the construction of the first hull and of the assistance to ADI for the activities related to the technology transfer.
The intermarine design was submitted, for almost three years, to severe and thorough analyses, and the conclusion was that the design proposed by intermarine was the most suitable to meet the Royal Australian Navy requirements.
The configuration of the Huon is the same as the Gaeta Class as far as general performance and propulsion system are concerned, while the Combat system is totally different.
The ship's length is 52.45 m., the displacement 720 t. and the speed 14 knots.
Transit navigation is by a single diesel engine (made by GMT) driving one controllable pitch propeller, while precise navigation over the minefield is by three auxiliary thrusters (made by Riva Calzoni), both propulsion systems are integrated with a SEPA autopilot.
The Combat System consists mainly of a GEC Marconi Command and Control system, a GEC Marconi Variable Depth Sonar, and two Mine Disposal Vehicles Double Eagle, supplied by Bofors.
The Communication system is made by CEA and the armament consists of a 30 mm. MSI gun.