Arafura class offshore patrol vessel NUSHIP Eyre launched

The Arafura class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) NUSHIP Eyre has been launched at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia. NUSHIP Eyre is the second in the class of OPVs being built by Luerssen Australia, in collaboration with local defence industry partners, for the Royal Australian Navy. The OPV 2 Eyre launch event. (PHOTO: Luerssen Australia) The Arafura class OPVs are intended to replace the Armidale class patrol boats and have been designed to perform maritime patrol and response duties for the Australian Defence Force. Named for the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, the OPV will be the first Royal Australian Navy ship to carry the name Eyre. NUSHIP Eyre is the second of two OPVs to be constructed at the Osborne Naval Shipyard, and follows the launch of NUSHIP Arafura in December 2021. The remaining vessels will be built by Luerssen Australia at the Henderson Maritime Precinct in Western Australia. Head Navy Capability, Rear Admiral Stephen Hughes, Royal Australian Navy, said: “On behalf of the Chief of Navy, and the sailors and officers of the Royal Australian Navy, I congratulate the defence industry workforce at Osborne on the launch of Australia’s second OPV, NUSHIP Eyre. We look forward to accepting Eyre into service and thank the many skilled shipbuilders who contribute to ensuring the RAN continues to operate capable warships of the highest quality.” Deputy Secretary Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment, Mr Jim McDowell, said: “The launch of NUSHIP Eyre is a significant milestone for the Arafura class OPV program, made possible by the commitment and cooperation everyone here at the Osborne Naval Shipyard. We look forward to continuing to work with Luerssen Australia to deliver these Arafura vessels.” Luerssen Australia CEO, Jens Nielsen, said the launch of the vessel is a testament to the hard work and cooperation of everyone at Osborne Naval Shipyard. “We would not be launching this ship without the commitment and passion from our production and shipbuilding teams, including the Naval Construction Branch and Navy,” Nielsen said. ”Everyone has worked tirelessly to deliver a formidable vessel to the RAN. You can be proud of your efforts.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]