Western Australia has marked a major defence milestone with the launch of NUSHIP Pilbara — the largest steel defence vessel ever built in the state and the third Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) for the Royal Australian Navy.
The launch represents the first Offshore Patrol Vessel constructed in Western Australia, a significant achievement for the state’s sovereign shipbuilding capability and a key milestone in the SEA1180 OPV program.
Critical infrastructure and services provided by the Australian Marine Complex Common User Facility (AMC CUF) enabled Civmec Defence Industry to deliver the complex, multi‑stage launch safely and efficiently. The operation leveraged the CUF’s integrated capabilities, including Self‑Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs), laydown and assembly areas, wharves, power and floating dock infrastructure — all within the AMC precinct.
NUSHIP Pilbara is the first of four OPVs being built in Western Australia, with NUSHIP Gippsland, Illawarra and Carpentaria currently in various stages of construction. Together, the Arafura Class vessels will enhance maritime security, regional engagement and humanitarian support for Australia.
The successful launch highlights Western Australia’s ability to support major Defence programs through world‑class infrastructure and expertise, strengthening the state’s role in Australia’s continuous naval shipbuilding strategy.
Read the full case study and launch overview in the PDF here.
