Austal Australia cuts metal for third of six new RAN Cape-class patrol boats

Austal Australia has cut the first metal for the third of six new Cape-class patrol boats to be constructed for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

Based on Austal’s proven 58-metre aluminium monohull patrol boat design, the new RAN Cape-class vessels include a number of enhancements that further extend the capability of the vessel and the fleet. Crew accommodation has been increased by 10 people to now total 32 and “quality-of-life” provisions have been enhanced, ensuring those who operate the new vessels have wi-fi connectivity to the outside world regardless of the operating environment.

Delivery of all six new RAN Cape-class boats is scheduled to take place from September 2021 to mid-2023.