The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has officially commissioned HMAS Eyre, the second vessel in its Arafura-class offshore patrol program, during a ceremony at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia.
The introduction of HMAS Eyre marks a significant milestone for the RAN, following the deployment of HMAS Arafura, which joined the fleet last year. This addition is part of a series of six planned Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) that aim to enhance Australia’s maritime security capabilities.
Measuring a robust 80 meters in length and displacing 1,625 tonnes, the Arafura-class vessels are specifically designed to patrol and safeguard Australia’s expansive maritime borders. They will operate alongside the existing Evolved Cape-class patrol boats, forming a cohesive fleet dedicated to our national security.
The versatility of these ships extends beyond mere patrol duties. According to the Department of Defence, HMAS Eyre will engage in various operations, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, thereby strengthening the RAN’s regional engagement strategy. This flexibility is crucial, especially in addressing emerging security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
With a remarkable operational range of 4,000 nautical miles, HMAS Eyre is equipped to perform diverse tasks that have traditionally required multiple vessels. This capability not only increases efficiency but also reduces operational costs, making it a vital asset for the Navy.
Comfort and well-being of the crew have been prioritized in the design of HMAS Eyre. The ship features upgraded living quarters and modern amenities, ensuring that personnel can maintain their effectiveness even during extended deployments at sea.
Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, the Chief of the Navy, underscored the significance of this commissioning. He noted, “The commissioning of HMAS Eyre strengthens our nation’s maritime security, providing our Navy with the capability to protect Australia’s maritime approaches, contributing to stability in our region.” His statements reflect the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Australian interests while also playing a stabilizing role in broader regional security.
Constructed by Civmec Defence Industries at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia, HMAS Eyre represents a pivotal moment as it is the last OPV built at that facility. The production of the remaining four Arafura-class vessels is currently underway at Civmec’s more modern facility in Henderson, Western Australia, showcasing the evolution of Australian naval shipbuilding.
The first of these new builds, NUSHIP Pilbara, was launched in October 2025 and is presently undergoing harbour acceptance trials. Concurrently, other vessels in the Arafura class, including NUSHIPs Gippsland, Illawarra, and Carpentaria, are at various stages of construction and outfitting at the Henderson facility, promising a future fleet that further enhances Australia’s maritime capabilities.
Notably, the RAN had previously commissioned HMAS Arafura in June last year, marking the inaugural vessel in the Arafura-class OPVs. This set the stage for a renewed focus on modernizing Australia’s naval fleet and ensuring it is well-equipped to tackle contemporary challenges at sea.
