The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has launched NUSHIP Pilbara (OPV 205), the third Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel, at the Henderson Maritime Precinct in Western Australia. Named after the Pilbara region, the vessel represents the first Arafura-class ship to be assembled at Civmec Defence Industries’ (CDI) shipyard, marking the largest naval vessel ever constructed in the state. The Arafura-class program, designated SEA1180 Phase 1, aims to deliver six OPVs by 2029 to replace aging patrol assets. Pilbara follows HMAS Arafura (OPV 203) and NUSHIP Eyre (OPV 204), both built in South Australia and delivered earlier this year. CDI will complete Pilbara’s outfitting and sea trials before its delivery to the navy in 2026. The 80-meter vessel is powered by twin diesel engines, capable of speeds up to 22 knots and operational endurance of 21 days. It is equipped with a 25mm autocannon, machine guns, and three rigid-hull inflatable boats, with accommodations for 40 crew. The OPV features modern navigation and surveillance systems, supporting missions such as coastal patrol, border protection, and humanitarian operations. The launch aligns with Australia’s 2024 National Defence Strategy, which prioritizes maritime readiness and regional engagement. Three additional vessels—NUSHIP Gippsland, NUSHIP Illawarra, and NUSHIP Carpentaria—are currently under construction, advancing Australia’s naval modernization agenda.
