Austal has won a A$135 million contract extension to build two additional Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats for the Australian Border Force, expanding its fleet and reinforcing maritime security capabilities.
- A$135 million contract extension awarded to Austal Pty
- Two additional Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats ordered for Australian Border Force
- Total contracted Evolved Cape-class vessels now 14
- Construction to occur at Henderson shipyard, Western Australia
- Supports Australia’s maritime surveillance and border security efforts
Austal Expands Patrol Boat Fleet
Austal Pty has been awarded a contract extension valued at over A$135 million to construct two additional Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats for the Australian Border Force (ABF). This latest order increases the total number of these vessels contracted to Austal to 14, underscoring the company’s pivotal role in Australia’s maritime defence and border security landscape.
The Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats have proven themselves as reliable and capable assets over the past five years, serving both the Australian Border Force and the Royal Australian Navy. Austal’s Chief Executive Officer, Paddy Gregg, highlighted how these vessels enhance the operational reach and readiness of Maritime Border Command, particularly across Northern Australia’s vast maritime domain.
Design and Operational Capabilities
The Evolved Cape-class design features expanded accommodations for up to 32 personnel, improved quality-of-life systems, and advanced sustainment technologies that maximise operational availability. These boats support a wide range of constabulary and naval missions, making them a cornerstone of Australia’s border security architecture.
Construction of the new vessels will take place at Austal’s Henderson shipyard in Western Australia, leveraging a national integrated supply chain and close collaboration with the Department of Defence and the Australian Border Force. Austal also continues to provide in-service support for both the original Cape-class and the Evolved Cape-class fleets through facilities in Henderson, Cairns, and Darwin.
Strategic Importance and Future Outlook
This contract extension not only reflects confidence in Austal’s proven shipbuilding capabilities but also reinforces Australia’s commitment to maintaining sovereign maritime defence capacity. Alongside this, Austal is actively delivering vessels under the Guardian-class Patrol Boat program, further solidifying its position as a key defence contractor.
As Australia faces increasing maritime security challenges, the expansion of the Evolved Cape-class fleet will be critical in enhancing surveillance, response, and border protection capabilities. Austal’s ongoing partnership with government agencies positions it well to meet future defence requirements.
Bottom Line?
Austal’s latest contract extension cements its role as a cornerstone of Australia’s maritime security, with delivery milestones set to shape the defence sector’s near-term outlook.
Questions in the middle?
- What are the expected delivery timelines for the two new patrol boats?
- How will this contract impact Austal’s financial performance and margins?
- Are there plans for further expansions or upgrades to the Evolved Cape-class fleet?