AHPC have lost the capacity to build boats in AUS...... As they have shifted opperations offshore like many other boat builders because it is more cost efficient. Could yhey have the capacity to produce boats again, yes if they geared up for it and brought in the expertise but would you be willing to pay the $$$$ for the all AUS built boat. That's business and I am sure Greg plans to keep his busniess profitable and competitive in the market place.

As for a minimum weight Viper, yes it could be done, it would use a lot of Carbon, It would be significantly quicker, would cost more than an A class and no it would not be a financially viable product.

AHPC have produced an F16 complient boat, but their aim is to build the Viper class to a state where it would be a strong International class without the need of the F16 class to build it's numbers.

And no, I don't think anyone will come out with a 'fully optimised' F16 any time soon (because the investment will not be even close to the reward), but it is sure as hell possible.