Austal will construct two Evolved Cape-class Patrols Boats (ECCPB) for the Australian Border Force (ABF) through a $137 million contract modification announced just days before Christmas.
"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," said Austal CEO Paddy Gregg.
The ABF was the first customer for the Cape class and operates eight vessels which were delivered between 2012 and 2015.
In previous filings to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), Austal has indicated that it expects the Commonwealth to order up to 11 ECCPBs for the ABF as part of plans, announced in February 2024, to build a combined Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and ABF fleet of 19 ECCPBs fitted for patrol work. The RAN already has eight ECCPBs in service, with a further two training variants on order, leaving a balance of 11 for the ABF.
“Austal previously delivered eight, original Cape-class Patrol Boat fleet 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,” Gregg added.