Austal’s pride in delivering 12th Guardian patrol boat

Perth shipbuilder Austal has delivered its 12th Guardian class patrol boat (pictured) to the federal government to be gifted to small Pacific ocean nations.

The Guardian-class replaces the 22 Pacific Forum-class patrol boats Australia provided to its allies from 1987 to 1997.

The latest vessel, the RVS Takuare has been delivered to the Republic of Vanuatu at a ceremony at the Australian Marine Complex at Henderson in WA.

The ceremony was attended by his excellency Mr Samson Vilvil Farray, Vanuatu High Commissioner to Australia, defence industry minister Melissa Price and other dignitaries, either in person, or online.

Austal CEO Paddy Gregg said the delivery of the 12th vessel only six weeks after the 11th highlighted the great efficiency of the Austal teams and shipyards.

The 12 vessels have been delivered in a period of 30 months, with four delivered this year.

“We are maintaining a delivery schedule of one vessel on average every three months.

“This is an outstanding track record of which the Australian defence industry should be proud.”

Picture: Austal/Guardian at sea

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