The Royal Australian Navy will today commemorate the service of HMA Ships Albany, Bathurst and Childers - the final three Armidale class patrol boats - during a triple decommissioning ceremony at their home port of HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin.
Over the past 20 years, the patrol boats have worked alongside other Government agencies to support Operation Sovereign Borders and Operation Resolute - protecting Australia against unauthorised entry; breaches of customs; fisheries protection, and upholding immigration and drugs legislation.
The Armidale class has supported allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific region, working with partner navies to enhance interoperability. The three decommissioning ships have participated in more than 70 maritime exercises with more than 30 partner navies during their tenure.
The Armidale class patrol boats were also showcased in the Australian drama Sea Patrol, which featured the fictional HMAS Hammersley from 2008-2011.
This decommissioning completes Navy's transition to the Evolved Cape class patrol boats that will continue to patrol and secure Australia's maritime borders.
HMA Ships Albany and Bathurst commissioned in 2006. HMAS Childers commissioned in 2007.
Over the course of their careers, each Armidale has sailed an average of 4800 days, travelled more than 800,000 nautical miles, conducted over 500 boardings, and visited approximately 40 international ports.
Quotes attributable to the Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, AO, RAN:
"The Armidale class patrol boats have played an integral part in protecting Australia's borders and serving the Navy proudly in high tempo operations for over 20 years.
"We say thank you to the crews past and present who have brought these ships to life, and to the many families who have supported their service.
"While the watch is complete for these ships, Australia's patrol boat force remains strong, vigilant, and capable."
