SHIPBUILDER Austal Australia has delivered the third of eight Cape-class patrol boats to the Royal Australian Navy.
Austal built ADV Cape Naturaliste in Western Australia under a contract signed with the RAN in May 2020.
Austal CEO Paddy Gregg said five more Cape-class patrol boats are scheduled for delivery by mid-2024.
“The fourth vessel, the future ADV Cape Capricorn, is alongside now and we have four more Evolved Capes at various stages of production here in Henderson,” he said
“With the continued support of our trusted supply chain partners, the Austal shipbuilding team is well on track to deliver all eight Evolved Cape-class patrol boats to the Navy by mid-2024, on schedule.”
The first two Evolved Cape-class patrol boats, ADV Cape Otway and ADV Cape Peron were delivered in March and August 2022, respectively.
Austal said the vessels feature improved quality-of-life systems and advanced sustainment intelligence systems. Each can accommodate up to 32 people.
The shipbuilder expects the boats to be used for constabulary and naval missions, playing a critical role in Australia’s national security.
Austal Australia said it provides in-service support for patrol boats operated by the Australian Border Force, RAN and Pacific Island nations at services centres in Henderson, Cairns and Darwin.
