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Defence companies have celebrated the successful acceptance of first Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessel by Defence.
Defence company Nova Systems supports the NUSHIP Arafura ahead of delivery to the Royal Australian Navy.
Nova Systems’ maritime team has been involved in the SEA 1180 project for more than seven years supporting Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group.
The OPVs make up part of a wider Navy Minor War Vessel Fleet providing essential capabilities for the Australian Navy and replacing the Armidale Class and Cape Class Patrol Boats.
Nova Systems has played a pivotal role throughout the construction of the new contemporary fleet of OPVs, offering extensive expertise in naval architecture, Test and Evaluation, engineering management, logistics, seaworthiness and acceptance activities.
Nova Systems provided oversight of system integration, ensuring that the ships meet the stringent requirements and specifications of NSSG and the Royal Australian Navy.
"Our involvement in this project underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable capabilities to the Australian Defence Force," James Luck, Nova Systems Maritime Portfolio Manager, said.
"All involved should be proud of their significant contribution to the enhancement of Australia’s naval and shipbuilding capabilities."
This new modern vessel is one of two OPVs being constructed in South Australia by shipbuilder Luerssen Australia, with an additional four being built at Henderson in Western Australia.
The primary role of the OPV is to undertake maritime patrol and response duties, alongside Australian Border Force, and other Australian Defence Force units and regional partners.
Nova Systems has been a long-term partner and remains committed to supporting the Arafura Class OPV Program.
In addition, Raytheon Australia also congratulated Defence and the SEA-1180 Program on the successful delivery and acceptance of NUSHIP Arafura.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for the Royal Australian Navy's Minor War Vessel Fleet and will enable enhanced civil maritime security and regional engagement - according to Raytheon Australia.
"As the Minor Vessel Capability Life Cycle Manager (CLCM), Raytheon Australia is proud to have supported and prepared for the introduction of this new capability into service," the company said.
"Our dedicated team has been working closely with the MV SPO, Enterprise partners, and industry to ensure a robust support system environment is in place that will assure and strengthen the OPV's seaworthiness, ship availability, and readiness for the Navy's mission. Raytheon Australia is ready to support Australia’s defence mission."
