Indo-Pacific 2022: Austal shows versatile new OPV 60
Austral unveiled its OPV 60 platform at Indo-Pacific 2022, a ship that will be available in three variants. (Gordon Arthur)
Austal has shown off a new OPV design that straddles a gap in its range, plus it is pursuing unmanned versions of its vessels.
Austal used the occasion of Indo-Pacific 2022 in Sydney to debut its OPV 60 design. To extend the 60m-long platform’s appeal, Austal is offering it in three mission configurations.
The basic steel-hulled design has many things in common, such as a stern ramp for launching RHIBs (instead of davits used on the Evolved Cape class, for example). There is also a stern launchpad for VTOL UAVs, a small crane at the stern and a combat information centre inside.
The baseline vessel has a 10.6m beam and 3m draught. Its top speed is 23.5kt, and the OPV 60 can achieve a
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs]()
Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs
The company has invested $80 million to enhance its facilities and establish a new maritime division.
-
![How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?]()
How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?
Although both countries still operate Cold War-era platforms, they possess capable nuclear-powered and armed submarines and are investing in the development of new, advanced capabilities.
-
![US Coast Guard to invest more than $5 billion in the Heritage Class Offshore Patrol Cutter]()
US Coast Guard to invest more than $5 billion in the Heritage Class Offshore Patrol Cutter
From FY2026 to FY2029, the OPC programme will receive funds from the Reconciliation Bill and the Coast Guard annual budget.
-
![Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds]()
Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds
Australia has selected the Mogami-class frigate from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to replace Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigates. The decision has been made as the RAN pushes to introduce delayed offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), awaits criticised Hunter-class ships and lives in the shadow of threats to the Collins-class submarine replacement efforts.
