• Austal awarded $137.02 million contract for 2 additional Evolved Cape-Class Patrol Boats
• Total of 12 Evolved Cape-Class Patrol Boats to be constructed by Austal
• Boats to enhance capabilities of Australian Border Force's maritime surveillance and border patrols

Austal Limited (ASX:ASB) has announced that its subsidiary, Austal Australia, has been awarded a contract extension for the construction of two additional Evolved Cape-Class Patrol Boats, to be delivered to the Australian Border Force (ABF). The A$137.02 million contract brings the total number of Evolved Cape-Class Patrol Boats to be constructed by Austal to 12, with eight delivered to date. Austal CEO Paddy Gregg stated that the additional vessels will further enhance the capabilities of Maritime Border Command and 'Operation Sovereign Borders', tasked with the ongoing protection of Australia's maritime borders. The eight Evolved Capes delivered by Austal since 2020, operating with the Royal Australian Navy, are making a significant contribution to maritime and border security. These additional vessels for the Australian Border Force will further enhance the capability for maritime surveillance and border patrols throughout Northern Australia. Austal previously delivered eight original Cape-Class Patrol Boats to the Australian Border Force from 2012 to 2015, and the company's proven shipbuilding expertise has led to the construction of the Evolved Capes for the ABF's first Evolved Capes, to enhance their existing capabilities for this important mission.