Austal hands over third evolved Cape-class patrol boat to Australia

Shipbuilding company Austal Australia has delivered the third of eight evolved Cape-class patrol boats (ECCPB) to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

The vessel, ADV Cape Naturaliste, was officially accepted by the Commonwealth of Australia. The first two evolved Cape-class patrol boats, ADV Cape Otway and ADV Cape Peron were delivered in March and August 2022, respectively.

The 58-metre aluminium monohull patrol boats feature new, larger amenities to accommodate up to 32 people, improved quality of life systems and advanced sustainment intelligence systems that further enhance the Royal Australian Navy’s ability to fight and win at sea.

The patrol boats will be used for a wide variety of constabulary and naval missions and play a critical role in Australia’s national security.

“Austal has now delivered three Evolved Capes to the Royal Australian Navy since the contract was signed in May 2020. Our productivity has improved with each new vessel, to the point where Austal is launching a new Evolved Cape after just 12 months construction,” Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer, Paddy Gregg said.

“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.”

Austal Australia is also contracted to deliver 22 Guardian-class Patrol Boats to the Commonwealth of Australia under the Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project (SEA3036-1) and has delivered 15 vessels since 2018.