Keel for first Arafura-class OPV constructed
The keel for the Royal Australian Navy’s first Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) has been constructed, the Australian Department of Defence announced on 21 March.
The keel has been assembled at ASC's Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia. Construction began in November 2018.
Under the AUD$3.6 billion Project Sea 1180 programme, Luerssen Australia is partnering with Civmec to construct the 12 OPVs in a joint venture called Australian Maritime Shipbuilding & Export Group (AMSEG).
The first two ships are being built at ASC’s Osborne shipyard near Adelaide, with subsequent production moving to Civmec’s Henderson facility in Western Australia.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs]()
South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs
HHI and Hanwha Ocean outline highly autonomous and unmanned-enabled designs as the ROKN explores force structure for the 2030s and beyond.
-
![South Korean shipbuilders showcase export ambitions amid ongoing KDDX delays]()
South Korean shipbuilders showcase export ambitions amid ongoing KDDX delays
Hyundai and Hanwha recently unveiled advanced frigate and submarine designs while South Korea eyes new export markets and resolves internal rivalries
-
![US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs]()
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
![Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy]()
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.
