It was announced on 29 September that at least two RAN Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) will be homeported at HMAS Cairns. The first, HMAS Arafura, is scheduled to be homeported in Cairns in early 2027.
The Government said: “Homeporting Arafura Class OPVs in Cairns will enhance Navy’s ability to operate and sustain capability in the north and support engagements across the region. It will further bolster the established maritime sustainment sector in Cairns, supporting the local economy and jobs and providing further confidence for North Queensland industry to invest in workforce capability and skills.”
The Arafura Class OPVs are designed to conduct maritime patrol, surveillance and response tasks and will work closely with Australian Border Force and regional partners. This announcement builds on the $250 million investment in HMAS Cairns, including expanded berthing capacity and enhanced supporting wharf and landside facilities. The wharf has been elevated above surrounding infrastructure to withstand rising king tide levels and ensure it continues to meet Navy operational requirements for decades to come.
Source: Department of Defence
