Austal (ASX:ASB) has confirmed that its subsidiary, Austal Ships, has been awarded a contract extension to build two more Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats for the Australian Border Force, valued at over $135 million.
This latest order increases Austal’s total contracted Evolved Cape-class fleet to 14 vessels, underscoring the company’s ongoing partnership with the ABF and the Royal Australian Navy in strengthening Australia’s maritime security.
Austal CEO Paddy Gregg said the additional patrol boats would further enhance Maritime Border Command’s readiness and operational reach.
"Over the past five years, the Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats have proven themselves as highly capable, reliable assets for Australia’s border protection missions," Gregg said.
"With nine vessels already delivered and two more under construction, this new order bolsters Australia’s maritime surveillance and response capability across Northern Australia and the nation’s extensive maritime domain."
The Evolved Cape-class design includes expanded accommodations for up to 32 personnel, improved quality-of-life systems, and advanced sustainment technologies to maximise operational availability.
The vessels perform a wide range of naval and constabulary missions, forming a key part of Australia’s border security framework.
Construction will take place at Austal's Henderson shipyard in Western Australia, leveraging a national supply chain and integrated project teams from the Department of Defence and the ABF.
Austal also continues to support both the Cape-class and Evolved Cape-class fleets through service facilities in Henderson, Cairns, and Darwin.