The Royal Australian Navy has welcomed HMAS Cape Spencer and HMAS Cape Hawke into service, in a commissioning ceremony at HMAS Cairns.

The 58.1-metre long Evolved Cape class patrol boats will strengthen the Australian Defence Force’s ability to protect Australia's maritime approaches and contribute to maritime security.

Commander Surface Force, Commodore Antony Pisani, said the dual commissioning ceremony marked an important milestone in Navy’s ongoing growth and modernisation.

"Today's commissioning formally welcomes HMAS Cape Spencer and HMAS Cape Hawke into service and represents another important step in growing and modernising Navy’s fleet to meet Australia’s future maritime security requirements,” Commodore Pisani said.

“The ceremony today recognises the commitment and professionalism of the sailors who will take these ships to sea and deliver outcomes for their country.

"Every new ship brought into service contributes to a more lethal and resilient Navy, ensuring we are ready to respond to emerging challenges across our maritime domain."

Evolved Cape Class patrol boats support Australia's maritime security objectives through border protection, maritime constabulary operations, law enforcement support, and international engagement activities.

With a range of more than 4,000 nautical miles, these new boats provide increased endurance and improved accommodation, enabling crews to remain at sea longer.First commanding officer of HMAS Cape Spencer, Lieutenant Commander Marita Knack, reinforced the significance of the occasion.

"The commissioning of HMAS Cape Spencer marks the beginning of the ship's service to Australia and is a significant occasion for not only every member of the crew but all who supported this journey," Lieutenant Commander Knack said.

Commanding officer HMAS Cape Hawke, Lieutenant Commander Harrison Ingham continued this sentiment and said it was a proud day for his ship’s company.

“This is a big moment for our commissioning crew who are ready to contribute to the important work Navy undertakes every day in protecting Australia's interests,” Lieutenant Commander Ingham said.

A commissioning ceremony is one of Navy's oldest traditions and signifies a ship's transition into active service as part of the Royal Australian Navy Fleet.

HMA Ships Cape Spencer and Cape Hawke will join the six commissioned Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats already in service: Cape Schanck, Cape Solander, Cape Pillar, Cape Naturaliste, Cape Woolamai, and Cape Capricorn.

All vessels are named after prominent capes around Australia’s coastline.

Media note

Imagery will be available at http://images.defence.gov.au/S20262633.