21 January 2021
Raytheon Australia has been selected as the new capability life cycle manager for the Royal Australian Navy’s Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels.
Head Maritime Systems at Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm said Raytheon would initially help support the transition of the offshore patrol vessels into service and set the foundations through life asset management.
“This contract represents a significant milestone in the development of the National Naval Shipbuilding Enterprise in this country,” Rear Admiral Malcolm said.
The first two Arafura-class vessels are under construction at Osborne in South Australia, while the remaining 10 vessels will be built at Henderson in Western Australia.
Rear Admiral Malcolm said the contract ensured opportunities for Australian industry would be maximised with domestic sourcing of materials.
“This will build depth and resilience in Australia’s national supply chains as we continue to effectively build a sovereign shipbuilding industry in this country,” he said.
“The offshore patrol vessels represent a critical capability for our Navy in patrolling and protecting our borders and fishing zones.”
For more information on how Defence is supporting primes and local small businesses and suppliers through Regional Maintenance Centres visit https://www1.defence.gov.au/business-industry/naval-shipbuilding/plan/galileo
