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Australia’s maritime patrol capability has been bolstered by the arrival of a new next-generation vessel.
Austal Australia has announced the delivery of ADV Cape Peron — an evolved Cape Class patrol boat (ECCPB) to be deployed by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
ADV Cape Peron is the second of eight vessels to be accepted by the RAN as part of the SEA1445-1 project, with the first vessel, APV Cape Otway, delivered in March.
The 58-metre aluminium monohull patrol boats, developed as part of the SEA1445-1 project, feature larger amenities built to accommodate up to 32 people, improved quality of life systems and advanced sustainment intelligence systems.
The boats will be deployed for border protection, fisheries and constabulary duties.
Austal Limited CEO Paddy Gregg reflected on the importance of the capability for the RAN.
“The evolved Cape Class patrol boats are not only enhancing the Royal Australian Navy’s capability, but further strengthening Australia’s sovereign shipbuilding capability, which is more important than ever before,” Gregg said.
The ECCPB program reportedly employs approximately 400 people in Western Australia and is supported by over 300 supply chain partners across the country.
“We’re part of the national naval shipbuilding enterprise that is delivering enhanced capability for the Navy, protecting Australia’s borders, and maintaining security in our region,” Gregg added.
“It’s a great source of pride for the entire Austal team knowing that we’re equipping our Navy, and our nation with the best possible patrol boat capability.
“Our congratulations and thanks go to the Navy, the Commonwealth, and our industry partners on this latest delivery.”
According to Austal, the six remaining vessels are in various stages of production at its shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia, with deliveries “scheduled progressively” through to 2024.
The Commonwealth government had initially ordered a total of six vessels; however, the former Morrison government ordered a further two boats in April under a new $124 million investment.
The vessels will replace the Armidale Class fleet ahead of the delivery of the next-generation Arafura Class offshore patrol vessels, developed as part of Project SEA 1180.
[Related: Defence boosts evolved Cape Class order ]
