Leeuwin

The Leeuwin class is a two-ship class of hydrographic survey vessels operated by the Royal Australian Navy. They are designed to conduct coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys, mapping the seafloor to facilitate safe navigation. The vessels are equipped with advanced multi-beam sonar systems and carry utility boats for shallow-water operations.

Developed in the mid-1990s to replace the aging HMAS Moresby, the ships were constructed by NQEA Australia in Cairns. HMAS Leeuwin, the lead ship, was launched in 1998 and commissioned into active service in May 2000. Throughout their operational careers, the vessels have mapped vast areas of the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone and supported regional humanitarian missions. In 2024, the Australian Government announced plans to decommission the class as part of a transition to newer hydrographic capabilities.