Austal Limited has been awarded a contract extension to build two additional Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats (ECCPBs) for the Australian Border Force (ABF), in a deal valued at approximately A$150.3 million.
The latest award brings the total number of ECCPBs contracted for delivery to the ABF to six, following recent naval deliveries under the same platform.
The announcement comes after Austal delivered the tenth Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boat to the Royal Australian Navy, ADV Cape Hawke, in March 2026.
Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer Paddy Gregg said the program remains an important part of Australia’s shipbuilding capability.
“Austal has delivered ten Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats to the Royal Australian Navy in just over five years, and construction is well advanced on the first four vessels for the Australian Border Force,” Gregg said.
“These additional two vessels further strengthen our record order-book of more than A$17.7 billion.”
Gregg also pointed to the broader impact of ongoing programs across defence shipbuilding and sustainment.
“Contract extensions such as this, along with other construction and sustainment programs in Australia and the United States… are contributing approximately A$500–700 million annually to Austal’s order book,” he said.
The Commonwealth has ordered fourteen Evolved Cape-class Patrol Boats since 2020 for the Royal Australian Navy and ABF, with Austal noting the new vessels will be built at its Henderson shipyard in Western Australia, supported by national supply chains.
The company said it continues to maintain in-service support for Cape-class fleets across multiple Australian locations, while highlighting the platform’s expanded accommodation, improved systems, and operational flexibility for border protection and maritime security roles.
The content of this article is based on information supplied by Austal Ltd. For more information, please refer to the official company announcement and communications from Austal. Please consult a licensed and/or registered professional in this area before making any decisions based on the content of this article.
