Defence shipbuilder Austal Australia has announced the successful launch of its ninth Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boat for the Royal Australian Navy, the future HMAS Cape Spencer, Defence Connect reports.
Since 2020, the company has been engaged by the Department of Defence to design and construct the vessels for the Royal Australian Navy.
Enhancements have been made to further extend the capability of the patrol boat fleet with modifications developed through the in-service experience of ten Cape-class Patrol Boats already operating with the Navy and Australian Border Force throughout Northern Australia.
“The Austal team, supported by our project, industry and supply chain partners, including Jetwave Marine have again demonstrated their commitment to efficiency, quality and reliability by launching Cape Spencer on-time, precisely to the production schedule,” according to an Austal statement.
“Since the SEA1445-1 project was awarded in May 2020, Austal Australia has delivered eight 58-metre Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats to the Navy.
“With the launch of Cape Spencer in April, three ECCPB’s remain under construction at the Henderson shipyard; the future HMAS Cape Hawke for the Navy, and two vessels for the Australian Border Force.
“Austal Australia is also currently constructing the last two of 24 Guardian-class Patrol Boats contracted for Defence Australia.”
