Australia: First Arafura-class OPV enters service

HMAS Arafura, the first Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV), has been commissioned into the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet.

As disclosed, the commissioning ceremony took place in Western Australia on June 28, 2025. Navy’s OPVs will help patrol and secure Australia’s maritime border alongside the evolved Cape class patrol boats. They will also play a role in humanitarian and disaster relief, enhance regional engagement and support other Navy missions. 

These new capabilities have a greater range of 4,000 nautical miles, and can perform roles that previously required numerous vessels. These OPVs will also have improved living quarters and amenities to better support personnel. 

HMAS Arafura was built by German shipbuilder Luerssen Australia at the Osborne Shipyard in South Australia. 

The second OPV, NUSHIP Eyre, has been built and is awaiting acceptance by the navy. The remaining four ships are under construction at the Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia. 

“The commissioning of HMAS Arafura marks an important milestone in the implementation of the Government’s Surface Fleet Review. HMAS Arafura means that the Navy can continue to ensure the safety and security of our maritime borders,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.

“The commissioning of HMAS Arafura is a turning point, and we will continue to see the Navy introduce new vessels into its fleet.” 

“The Australian Government has worked collaboratively with Defence and Luerssen Australia to successfully deliver HMAS Arafura, with another ship on the way and four more under construction at Henderson,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy stated.

“The construction of the remaining four ships is on track, and continues the Australian Government’s investment in a productive, continuous naval shipbuilding and sustainment industry.”

“A strong Australia relies on a strong Navy, one that is equipped to conduct diplomacy in our region, deter potential adversaries, and defend our national interests when called. The Arafura class offshore patrol vessels will perform a number of roles, including regional engagement, patrol duties, and employment of uncrewed systems in a variety of missions,” Chief of Navy, VADM Mark Hammond, commented.

To remind, NUSHIP Arafura was delivered to the navy in January this year.

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