15 May 2025
As the Australian White Ensign was raised for the first time over His Majesty’s Australian ships Cape Schanck and Cape Solander, age-old naval tradition symbolised the Royal Australian Navy’s commitment to the future of defence capabilities.
Under perfect Darwin conditions, the ceremony gave the two evolved Cape-class patrol boats (eCCPB) the designation of HMAS, officially recognising their status as commissioned warships in the Royal Australian Navy.
Commander Surface Force Commodore Terence Morrison said the commissioning of the eCCPBs celebrated the work already conducted by the crews, and provided Navy with increased operational capability and greater mission flexibility.
“This commissioning is the symbolic recognition of Cape Schanck and Cape Solander’s integral role in Navy’s commitment to supporting the long-term aims of the National Defence Strategy and the Government’s decisions in response to the 2024 Surface Combatant Fleet Review,” Commodore Morrison said.
“These ships represent a significant step in strengthening Australia’s maritime security and enhancing our national defence capabilities.
“Congratulations to the crews and continue to serve Navy, your family and the communities who call Cape Schanck and Cape Solander home in the spirit of your mottoes of Persist and Pioneer, and welcome to Navy’s fleet – a fleet that is focused, lethal and ready.”
'These ships represent a significant step in strengthening Australia’s maritime security and enhancing our national defence capabilities.'
The ships have been operating as Australian Defence Vessels (ADV), and will continue to uphold the full spectrum of patrol boat operations, including border, resources and fisheries protection, customs and drug law enforcement operations, and international engagement.
Commanding Officer Cape Schanck Lieutenant Commander Christopher Wardle said that it was an honour for him and his crew to bring the ship into the next chapter of service.
“Noting our role in protecting Australia’s borders and our national interests, I believe it is fitting that we take our place as a warship within the RAN Fleet,” Lieutenant Commander Wardle said.
“Cape Schanck is named for a prominent cape in Victoria, close to HMAS Cerberus, which is renowned for having one of Australia’s oldest lighthouses.
“Like our namesake, I believe Cape Schanck will be a beacon in the dark for those in need and, like our motto, I believe the ship and her crew will persist in the pursuit of Navy’s mission for many years to come.”
HMA ships Cape Schanck and Cape Solander join four other eCCPBs that were commissioned together in December 2024.
