Austal scores deal for two additional evolved Cape-class patrol ships

Shipbuilder Austal Australia has been awarded a contract extension for the construction of two additional evolved Cape-class patrol boats (ECCPBs) to be delivered to the Australian Border Force (ABF).

As disclosed, the eleventh and twelfth ECCPBs will add to the Australian Border Force’s existing fleet of eight original Cape-class patrol boats, delivered by Austal from 2012–2015.

The SEA1445-1 ECCPB project, initially constructing six 58-meter aluminum monohull patrol boats for the Royal Australian Navy from May 2020, was extended by two vessels in April 2022 and a further two vessels in February 2024.

With the support of Austal’s supply chain partners and project teams from the Department of Defense and Royal Australian Navy, Austal has delivered eight ECCPBs to date. Two vessels are currently under construction at Austal’s shipyard Henderson, in Western Australia.

The A$137.02 million contract brings the total number of Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats to be constructed by Austal to 12, with eight delivered to date.

The A$137.02 million contract brings the total number of evolved Cape-class patrol boats to be constructed by Austal to twelve, with eight delivered to date.

“The eight Evolved Capes delivered by Austal since 2020, operating with the Royal Australian Navy, are making a significant contribution to our maritime and border security. These additional vessels for the Australian Border Force will further enhance the capability for maritime surveillance and border patrols throughout Northern Australia,” Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer Paddy Gregg said.

“The eight Evolved Capes delivered by Austal since 2020, operating with the Royal Australian Navy, are making a significant contribution to our maritime and border security. These additional vessels for the Australian Border Force will further enhance the capability for maritime surveillance and border patrols throughout Northern Australia.”

The patrol boats, designed and constructed by Austal Australia, are advanced maritime vessels built to enhance Australia’s national security. These patrol boats can accommodate up to 32 personnel and feature improved amenities.

The boats are equipped with advanced sustainment intelligence systems to optimize operational performance and efficiency during missions further.

They are versatile vessels, capable of performing a wide range of constabulary and naval missions, including border protection, surveillance, and search-and-rescue operations.