Austal Completes Delivery of 8th Cape-Class Patrol Boat to Australian Navy Fleet.

According to a PR published by Austal on October 31, 2024, Austal Australia has reached a significant milestone with the delivery of the ADV Cape Schanck (313), the eighth Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boat (ECCPB) for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). This delivery forms part of a broader ten-vessel contract under the SEA1445-1 project, awarded to Austal in May 2020.
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Evolved Cape-class patrol boat ADV Cape Schanck. (Picture source: Austal)

Constructed at Austal’s Henderson shipyard in Western Australia, the ADV Cape Schanck is a 58-meter patrol vessel designed to meet the operational needs of the RAN. The Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boat program initially set out to build six patrol boats, but an extension in 2022 and 2024 raised the order to ten.

The patrol boats boast enhanced living spaces for a crew of up to 32 and incorporate advanced sustainment intelligence systems, reflecting Austal’s focus on crew comfort and operational efficiency. These additions strengthen the RAN's capacity to perform a range of maritime security operations, cementing the ECCPB fleet as a crucial asset in Australia’s national security strategy.

Beyond delivering these cutting-edge vessels, Austal provides in-service support for the Cape, Evolved Cape, and Guardian-class patrol boats operated by the RAN, Australian Border Force, and allied Pacific nations. This ongoing support is facilitated through dedicated service centers in Henderson, Cairns, and Darwin, further underlining Austal’s strategic commitment to Australia’s naval capability.

In addition to the ECCPBs, Austal Australia is also contracted to deliver 24 Guardian-class patrol boats under the Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project (SEA3036-1), with 21 vessels already delivered since 2018.

Royal Australian Navy vs Australian Border Force

The Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) serve different but complementary roles within Australia’s national security framework. The ABF, created in 2015, operates under the Department of Home Affairs, integrating customs and immigration enforcement.

It is primarily responsible for protecting Australia's borders, focusing on customs services, immigration enforcement, border protection, and detention management. This agency aims to prevent the illegal movement of goods and people into Australia, addressing issues like smuggling and unauthorized maritime arrivals.

In contrast, the Royal Australian Navy is a military branch of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) under the Department of Defence. Its mission is to defend Australia’s maritime interests and ensure the security of sea lines. The Navy’s duties extend to naval warfare, maritime patrols, and participating in international security operations, including peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.