Minister visits WA to inspect first Cape Class Patrol Boat
08 Dec 2016
Media release Today marks a significant milestone for the Royal Australian Navy with the roll-out of the first of two Cape Class Patrol Boats being built for the Navy at Austal's facility in Henderson, Western Australia.
The Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP witnessed the roll-out of Australian Defence Vessel (ADV) Cape Fourcroy, which marks the end of the main construction phase of the vessel.
"The Turnbull Government is delivering our commitment to use local industry wherever possible," Minister Pyne said.
“Austal is a prime example of Australian defence industry successfully delivering not just for Australia but capabilities for defence forces around the globe, including the United States Navy."
Minister Pyne said ADV Cape Fourcroy, will be launched this week and delivered to the Navy in April 2017 with the second vessel, ADV Cape Inscription, following in May 2017.
"By building and assembling the Navy’s future assets in Australia, the Turnbull Government is driving jobs and growth in our local defence industry," said Minister Pyne.
“Austal is one of the key companies that contribute to our national shipbuilding strategy, delivering Defence capabilities, high-tech manufacturing and innovation that will drive our nation’s future prosperity.”
ADV Cape Fourcroy and ADV Cape Inscription will be leased by the Navy until at least 2019, supplementing the current Armidale Class Patrol Boat fleet.
The ships will be utilised across a broad range of operational tasks including counter-terrorism; irregular maritime arrivals; illegal exploitation of natural resources; prohibited imports and exports; piracy, robbery and violence at sea; compromise of bio-security; illegal activity in protected areas; and marine pollution.
The Minister will also meet senior Western Australian Government representatives and local companies to discuss opportunities for WA's defence industry.
“Today is an excellent chance to meet with key decision makers to further develop the partnership necessary to deliver Defence’s capability plans over the next decade," said Minister Pyne.
The Minister will also address the WA Defence Conference, organised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western Australia, outlining the Turnbull Government’s defence industry agenda and how the state can maximise its involvement.
“WA will play a pivotal role in this national endeavour which is why it's important to spend the day speaking to influential people about the Turnbull Government's important agenda.”