Australia has launched its third Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV), NUSHIP Pilbara (OPV 205), at a ceremony held at the Henderson Maritime Precinct. The vessel, named after Western Australia’s resource-rich Pilbara region, highlights the nation’s commitment to strengthening its naval industry and maritime defense capacity.
The launch was led by the Chief Commissioner of Port Hedland, who also serves as the ship’s sponsor. Under the SEA1180 Phase 1 program, the Royal Australian Navy will receive six Arafura-class patrol vessels by 2029 to replace aging fleet assets. The initiative is a key component of the 2024 National Defence Strategy, focused on enhancing Australia’s maritime readiness and regional influence.
Built by Civmec Defence Industries (CDI), NUSHIP Pilbara is the first OPV constructed in Western Australia and the largest naval vessel ever assembled in the state. It follows HMAS Arafura and NUSHIP Eyre, which were delivered earlier from South Australia. CDI will now proceed with final outfitting and sea trials before handing the vessel over to the Royal Australian Navy next year.
The Arafura-class ships are optimized for border protection, coastal patrol, and humanitarian missions. Equipped with modern communication and navigation systems, the 80-meter-long vessels can carry 40 crew members, three rigid-hull inflatable boats, and light unmanned aerial systems. Powered by twin diesel engines, they can operate for 21 days continuously, reach speeds of 22 knots, and cover distances up to 4,000 nautical miles—ensuring effective operations across Australia’s extensive maritime zones.
