Australia orders another Guardian-class patrol vessel from Austal

The Australian government has ordered Austal Australia to build and supply an additional Guardian-class patrol vessel for A$15.2 million.

The 39.5-meter steel-hull unit, to be built in Western Australia and delivered in September 2024, will join 21 Guardian-class patrol vessels ordered by the Australian government as part of the Pacific Patrol (SEA3036-1) boat replacement project in 2016.

Since 2018, fifteen of the 21 ships have been delivered to 11 Pacific island countries as part of the Australian Government’s Pacific Maritime Security Programme.

Faster than previous Pacific-class units, with improved observations, improved services, and enhanced mission capabilities, including the RHIB Integrated Launch System and Recovery System, the Guardian-class patrol vessel provides Pacific Island Nations with much-improved maritime resources for regional border patrols, police, and search and rescue. And many other operations at the national and international levels.

The Pacific Patrol (SEA3036-1) boat replacement project was awarded to Austal Australia in May 2016, with an additional contract option awarded in April 2018, bringing the program to 21 vessels, valued at more than Austal 335 million.

Twelve Pacific island nations, including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, the Federated States of Micronesia, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Palau, Samoa, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and East Timor, will receive ships through 2023.

Designed, built and supported by Austal Australia, the 39.5 m high, 8 m wide and 2.5 m single-hull steel monocoque unit was based on a proven platform design that included 38 m Bay-class patrol boats and 56 metric Armidale-class vessels. The 58-meter cap class is in service with the Australian Border Force and the Royal Australian Navy.

Guardian-class units reach a maximum speed of 20 knots with a range of 3,000 nautical miles at 12 knots and have indoor accommodation for up to 23 people.

Source and image Austal Australia