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What is the Attack-class patrol boat?

The Attack-class is a tough steel boat built to guard shores. Australia first made these boats in 1967. They are small and fast, which makes them perfect for watching over coastal waters and island lands.

What were these boats used for?

These ships patrolled thousands of miles of ocean to keep the country safe. They kept a close eye on fishing boats to make sure rules were followed. The crews also used them to stop smugglers who tried to sneak illegal goods into the country.

Did these boats fight in any wars?

These boats did not fight in any big wars. Instead, their main job was to keep the peace after Papua New Guinea became an independent country. They carried light cannons and machine guns to help sailors perform their duties during times of calm.

How did Papua New Guinea get these boats?

Australia helped create the new navy for Papua New Guinea by giving them these ships. Between 1974 and 1975, Australia transferred five of these boats to the new nation. This gift helped the country build its very first naval force.

What is the history of these boats in Papua New Guinea?

These ships were the first ones ever owned by the new naval force of Papua New Guinea. They served the country well for many years as guardians of the sea. Eventually, they retired when the country bought larger and more modern patrol boats to take their place.

Home Library Papua New GuineaAttack-class Patrol Boat

Patrol Boat

Attack-class Patrol Boat

A steel coastal patrol boat handed over to form the first official naval force of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea Introduced 1967 Walkers Limited / Evans DeakinRole: Coastal patrol and surveillance

Specifications

Length

107 feet

Speed

24 knots

Crew

19 sailors

Armament

One 40mm Bofors gun

The Attack-class Patrol Boat of Papua New Guinea

History

During the late Cold War in 1974 and 1975, Australia transferred five Attack-class patrol boats to help create the Papua New Guinea Defence Force Maritime Element.

These boats were designed to guard coastal waters, monitor fishing boats, and stop smugglers along thousands of miles of island coastline. They were armed with a light deck cannon and machine guns.

The Attack-class gave Papua New Guinea its very first sovereign naval capability right at national independence and served until larger modern patrol boats arrived.