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Civmec and Luerssen Australia have congratulated the Royal Australian Navy on the commissioning of HMAS Arafura and delivery of the vessel by staff and contractors.
The commissioning marks a milestone in the development of Australia’s continuous naval shipbuilding enterprise and is the first steel warship built in the Osborne Naval Shipyard since the Hobart Class Guided Missile Destroyers, according to the two companies.
It underlines the nation’s commitment to sovereign defence capability, local industry and maritime security – they said in a public statement.
“The commissioning of HMAS Arafura is a testament to the hard work, dedication and collaboration of all stakeholders involved in this complex and important project,” said Malcolm Taylor, director of Luerssen Australia.
“I personally want to thank all involved in her design, build and delivery and wish the Royal Australian Navy fair winds and following seas.”
HMAS Arafura is the first of the Arafura Class offshore patrol vessels. The cutting-edge Arafura Class will contribute to the Royal Australian Navy’s ability to deliver maritime force. With a displacement of 1,640 tonnes and a length of 80 metres, these versatile vessels are equipped with advanced sensors, command and communication systems, and can support specialist mission packages. The Arafura Class will undertake constabulary missions, maritime patrol and response duties.
Construction of the Arafura Class is taking place between Osborne in South Australia and Henderson in Western Australia. HMAS Arafura and its sister ship, NUSHIP Eyre, were constructed in Osborne.
NUSHIP Eyre is on track to be accepted by the Royal Australian Navy later this year. The OPVs Pilbara, Gippsland, Illawarra and Carpentaria are being built in Civmec’s shipyard in Henderson.
Civmec has entered into a binding agreement to acquire Luerssen Australia and, subject to meeting conditions precedent including consent from the Commonwealth, will take over responsibility for delivery of the Arafura program on 1 July.
“Civmec is honoured to be part of this national endeavour, and we look forward to supporting the Royal Australian Navy as it welcomes these world-class vessels into its fleet,” said Jim Fitzgerald, executive chair of Civmec.
“Our team is committed to delivering the remaining ships to the highest standards and playing a leading role in reinforcing Australia’s sovereign shipbuilding capability.”
