The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has brought two more Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats into commissioned service in a ceremony at their homeport of HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin.
“The commissioning of HMAS Cape Schanck and HMAS Cape Solander demonstrates their importance to Australia and the Australian people, and what we stand for as a nation,” Commander Surface Force, Commodore Terence Morrison, said.
The ceremony will give Cape Schanck and Cape Solander the designation of His Majesty’s Australian Ships (HMAS), officially recognising their status as commissioned warships in the Royal Australian Navy.
“It also represents Navy’s commitment to protecting Australia and its interests, as well as upholding maritime security and ensuring peace and stability within our region," Commodore Morrison stated.
The ships have been serving as Australian Defence Vessels, and will continue to be used for the full spectrum of patrol boat operations, including border, resources and fisheries protection, customs and drug law enforcement operations, and international engagement.
The patrol boats will provide Navy with increased operational capability and greater mission flexibility.