The Royal Australian Navy has admitted its final Evolved Cape-class systems into service, completing the 12-patrol vessel program signed in 2020.
The new platforms were designated as the HMAS Cape Spencer (P225) and HMAS Cape Hawke (P226), continuing the tradition of naming the boats in the series after prominent capes along Australia’s coastline.
After the commissioning, the vessels will join six commissioned sister ships deployed across the Oceanian country’s littoral zones, maintaining regional security and broader national defense.
“The ceremony today recognises the commitment and professionalism of the sailors who will take these ships to sea and deliver outcomes for their country,” said Cdre. Antony Pisani, Commander Surface Force of the Royal Australian Navy.
“Every new ship brought into service contributes to a more lethal and resilient Navy, ensuring we are ready to respond to emerging challenges across our maritime domain.”
Austal, the Evolved Cape developer, is expected to deliver additional patrol vessels in the same class design for a separate 14-ship initiative supplementing the Australian Border Force.
The Evolved Cape System
Australia’s Evolved Cape-class hull measures 58 meters (190 feet) long and has capacity for 32 personnel.
Depending on mission profiles, the boat uses a 20mm or 30mm remote-controlled weapon system, supported by 12.7mm crew-served machine guns.
The boat is fitted with two Caterpillar 3516C diesel engines, enabling 6,770 horsepower to support a maximum speed of 26 knots (48 kilometers/30 miles per hour) and an operational coverage of 4,000 nautical miles (7,408 kilometers/4,603 miles).