Shipbuilder Austal has launched Hull 544, the final Guardian-class patrol boat contracted for construction under the Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project (SEA3036-1) for Australia.
The launch marks a significant milestone in the 24-vessel program that began in May 2017 with the plate cutting on the first Guardian, HMPNGS Ted Diro, and has seen 22 vessels delivered to date, to support maritime security across the Pacific.
The Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project (SEA 3036-1) was awarded to Austal Australia in May 2016, with follow-on contract options exercised in April 2018, November 2022, and June 2024. These awards expanded the program to a total of 24 vessels, with a combined value exceeding A$400 million.
The program is designed to strengthen practical maritime security cooperation across the South Pacific, enhancing regional capacity to address key challenges such as illegal fishing, transnational crime, and search and rescue operations.
The Guardian-class patrol boat measures 39.5 meters in length, with an 8-meter beam and a fully loaded draft of 2.5 meters. The vessel can reach speeds of up to 20 knots and has a range of approximately 3,000 nautical miles at 12 knots. Each platform is crewed to accommodate up to 23 personnel.
Faster than the previous Pacific-class patrol boats, with improved seakeeping, better amenities, and an enhanced mission capability – including an integrated RHIB stern launch and recovery system – the Guardian-class patrol boats will carry out border patrols, regional policing, search and rescue, and many other operations, according to Austal.
In December 2024, Austal delivered the 22nd Guardian-class patrol boat, RFNS Timo, to the Australian Department of Defense at a ceremony held at Henderson shipyard.