Austal: First Evolved Cape-class patrol boat launched for ABF

June 9, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Australian shipbuilding company Austal has launched the first Evolved Cape–class patrol boat (ECCPB) for the Australian Border Force (ABF).

This is the first of six evolved Cape-class patrol boats (ECCPBs) Austal is contracted to deliver to the Australian Border Force, following the addition of two vessels to the original order of four in early May 2026.

Austal to construct two additional Evolved Cape-class patrol boats for ABF

Vessels

All six ships will be constructed at Henderson, supported by Austal’s national and local supply chain and wider industry partnerships.

The launch comes after the recent completion of the Royal Australian Navy program, which saw the delivery of ten ECCPBs, with the Australian defense vessel Cape Hawke handed over in March 2026.

Austal delivers tenth evolved Cape-class patrol boat to Australia

Vessels

“Constructed by our experienced workforce, with the benefit of our demonstrated partnerships, and incorporating Austal’s commitment to innovation, orders like these for the ABF recognise this platform as a core component of national maritime security,” Paddy Gregg, Austal CEO, said.

“Austal is enthusiastically contributing to the expansion of the ABF fleet once again and looks forward to delivering a vessel that will satisfy its important mission requirements.”

The 58.1-meter ECCPBs are designed to support a wide range of missions, including border protection, and feature enhanced quality-of-life systems and sustainment technologies.

Austal delivered eight original Cape–class patrol boats (CCPB) to the ABF between 2012 and 2015, also constructing CCPBs for the Royal Australian Navy and the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard.

The new ABF vessel is expected to be completed in the final quarter of 2026.