Civmec Defence Industries (CDI) has successfully launched NUSHIP Pilbara, the third Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), at its Henderson facility in Western Australia. Pilbara, the largest naval ship ever built in Western Australia, also holds the distinction of being the first Arafura Class OPV constructed in the state—marking a significant milestone in the development of both CDI and Western Australia’s shipbuilding capabilities.
The vessel is the first Royal Australian Navy ship to bear the name of Western Australia’s Pilbara region. NUSHIP Pilbara was launched by the ship’s sponsor, Port Hedland Chief Commissioner Jessica Shaw. The ongoing appointment of the Mayor of Port Hedland as the long-term ship sponsor reflects the historic connection between the Pilbara region and the Australian Defence Force.
The launch represents continued progress for the SEA 1180 Arafura Class OPV program. The first two vessels built in South Australia—HMAS Arafura (OPV 1) and NUSHIP Eyre (OPV 2)—were delivered to Defence in June and August respectively. The remaining four vessels are under construction at CDI’s naval shipyard in Henderson. Following outfitting, NUSHIP Pilbara (OPV 3) will undergo sea trials ahead of delivery next year. Construction is also advancing on NUSHIP Gippsland (OPV 4) and NUSHIP Illawarra (OPV 5), while NUSHIP Carpentaria (OPV 6) had its keel laid last August.
Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond said the launch underscores the strong partnership between the Navy and Australian industry, emphasising that the Arafura Class fleet will provide the versatility and endurance required for patrol, regional engagement, and border protection missions alongside the Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats, and noted that the Navy looks forward to accepting Pilbara into service.
Next-Generation Patrol Capabilities
The Arafura Class OPVs will deliver enhanced maritime security, regional engagement, and humanitarian and disaster relief capabilities for the Royal Australian Navy. With a displacement of 1,625 tonnes and a length of 80 metres, the vessels feature a top speed of 20 knots, a range of 4,000 nautical miles, a core crew of 40 and accommodation for up to 60 personnel.
Powered by two 4,250 kW diesel engines, the class carries three Boomeranger RHIBs: one stern-launched 10.5 m C1100 boat and two crane-launched 8.5 m FRB 850 fast rescue boats. Armament includes one 25 mm gun and two .50 calibre machine guns.
Operating across Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone, the Arafura Class will work closely with the Australian Border Force, Australian Federal Police and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority. The vessels will also cooperate with regional partners to uphold Australian and international law—helping counter unauthorised entry, customs and immigration breaches, drug trafficking, illegal activity, and threats to national fisheries, marine environments and natural resources.
Strengthening Western Australia’s Shipbuilding Sector
Civmec Limited acquired Luerssen Australia in July 2025, consolidating its naval shipbuilding operations under the newly renamed Civmec Defence Industries. CDI General Manager Mark Clay described the launch of Pilbara as a milestone that reflects the region’s heritage in steel production and the state’s growing role in naval construction.
Clay stated: “Launching the largest naval ship ever built in Western Australia—named after the Pilbara and made of steel—is a fitting tribute. The Pilbara region holds some of the world’s richest iron ore deposits, and Civmec is highly regarded for its steel fabrication capabilities. Today’s launch highlights the craftsmanship of CDI, Western Australia’s naval shipbuilders, and all our suppliers and partners. The project now enters a new phase as on-water activities commence in Western Australia, and I’m confident in our team’s ability to continue the excellent work begun by our South Australian colleagues.”
NUSHIP Pilbara will complete its outfitting phase before undergoing sea trials, with delivery to the Royal Australian Navy scheduled for 2026.
