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Austal, ABF pen $13m Evolved Cape Class patrol boat contract

The ASX-listed shipbuilder announced that it has been awarded a contract extension for the development of two additional Evolved Cape Class patrol boats for the Australian Border Force.

The ASX-listed shipbuilder announced that it has been awarded a contract extension for the development of two additional Evolved Cape Class patrol boats for the Australian Border Force.

The order brings the total number of Evolved Cape Class patrol boats scheduled for delivery to the Commonwealth by Austal to 12, though this order marks the first two capabilities ordered for the Australian Border Force.

The capabilities are expected to protect Australia’s borders, supporting the Maritime Border Command and Operation Sovereign Borders.

“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 CEO Paddy Gregg said.

“Austal previously delivered eight, original Cape Class patrol boat fleets to the Australian Border Force from 2012 to 2015; it’s a testament to the vessel’s capability and our team’s shipbuilding expertise that we’re now tasked with constructing two Evolved Capes for the ABF; their first Evolved Capes, to enhance their existing capabilities for this important mission.”

In an ASX statement, the shipbuilder confirmed that it has delivered eight of the Evolved vessels to date, with two still under construction at the company’s Henderson, Western Australia, shipyard.

As part of the SEA1445-1 Evolved Cape Class patrol boat project, Austal was contracted to deliver six patrol boats for the Royal Australian Navy, which was increased by two in April 2022 and an additional two in February 2024.

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