Australia has officially commissioned HMAS Arafura into the Royal Australian Navy fleet, marking a significant milestone in a recently completed surface fleet review. According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, the offshore patrol vessel will be deployed for missions aimed at patrolling and securing the country’s maritime borders. It is also expected to participate in the service’s humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
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Built by German shipbuilder Luerssen Australia, HMAS Arafura is the first vessel of the Arafura-class OPV for the RAN. The ship can cover a range of 4,000 nautical miles and includes living quarters and amenities to support the crew while they carry out their missions.
The commissioning of the Arafura follows an independent analysis of the RAN Surface Combatant Fleet, which recommended the need for a specialized ship capable of patrolling Australian waters alongside the Cape-class patrol boats.
In response to the findings, the Australian government acknowledged the important role played by OPVs play in civil maritime security operations and recognized the potential benefits of having a common platform for both the Navy and Australian Border Force.
“HMAS Arafura means that the navy can continue to ensure the safety and security of our maritime borders,” said Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles.