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Posted by Allen Newton
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10 June, 2026
AUSTAL Ships has launched the first of six Evolved Cape–class Patrol Boats (ECCPB) for the Australian Border Force (ABF).
In early May, Austal’s original contract to build four of the vessels was expanded to six.
All six will be built at Henderson, supported by Austal’s national and local supply chain and other partnerships.
The launch follows the recent delivery of the last of 10 ECCPBs for the Royal Australian Navy, with Australian Defence Vessel Cape Hawke handed over in March 2026.
An Austal media release said the launch marks a key milestone in the ongoing relationship between Austal, the ABF and the Commonwealth of Australia.
Austal CEO Paddy Gregg said it confirmed both the effectiveness and key role of the ECCPB in supporting ABF to protect Australia’s borders.
“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,” Mr Gregg 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.
“We remain grateful to the ABF and the Commonwealth of Australia for their confidence in Austal and collaboration with us.”
The 58.1 metre 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.
