Austal Australia has launched the tenth and final evolved Cape-class patrol (ECCPB), ADV Cape Hawke, constructed for the Royal Australian Navy.
The launching ceremony took place at Henderson shipyard, Western Australia. The Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boat (ECCPB) program represents a significant enhancement of Australia’s maritime security capabilities.
Developed by Austal Australia under the SEA1445 Phase 1 project, this initiative aims to replace the aging Armidale-class patrol boats and provide an interim solution until the Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels are operational.
“The successful launch of ADV Cape Hawke further reinforces Austal’s performance and reliability as Australia’s strategic shipbuilder in Western Australia. Constructing ten Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats in just over five years is a testament to the capability of our workforce and supply chain partners in delivering trusted naval capability for the Royal Australian Navy,” Paddy Gregg , CEO of Austal Limited, said.
The project, initially constructing six 58-metre aluminium monohull patrol boats for the Royal Australian Navy from May 2020, was extended by two vessels in April 2022 and a further two vessels in February 2024, bringing the total to ten vessels.
The ninth ship in this class, HMAS Cape Spencer, was delivered earlier this month.