The Ministry of Defence forces getting a fleet of state of the art patrol boats in a £36m deal.

An order for 18 high-speed patrol craft for marine defence officers has been signed to protect naval bases in UK and Gibraltar.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed a £36m contract has been awarded to Marine Specialised Technology to upgrade part of the current fleet.

The five-year deal with the Merseyside firm will deliver 16 patrol craft to the MOD Police and two craft to the GDP.

The new vessels will replace the current 14.0m – 15.0m Police Patrol Launches currently in use. Key roles will include protecting HM Naval Bases in the UK and Gibraltar and undertaking high-profile armed patrolling of the UK’s borders.

The specification

• They will be able to carry three crew members and up to four passengers, travelling up to 30 knots.
• They will be fitted with a CCTV surveillance system and will be reinforced with bullet-proof protection against incoming fire.
• The craft will be powered by twin inboard diesel propulsion engines driving twin waterjets with a specific focus on low running costs, reduced environmental emissions and suitability for significant operating hours.
• The bridge will feature a fully integrated C4ISR and craft management system, utilising the latest open-architecture structure and state of the art shock mitigation crew seating.

Patrol and policing work will be at UK naval bases including HMNB Portsmouth, HMNB Devonport and HMNB Clyde, as well as the Gibraltar Naval Dockyard.

MOD Police marine operations support lead, Inspector Brian McArdle, said: “The bespoke craft requirement compiled in collaboration with Defence Equipment and Support, will deliver a modern maritime craft enhancing the operational capabilities of the MOD Police.

“The craft procurement is part of an ongoing craft replacement project ensuring the MOD Police continues to support MOD and Royal Navy to achieve operational objectives.”

Awarding the contract to a UK firm will sustain 50 jobs and create a further 15 across the north west of England.

Construction has already started on the design project and the first police patrol craft is expected to be delivered in July 2022.

DE&S Boat Acquisition project manager, Joshua Brooks said: “These craft will ensure the continuity of an important capability for the MOD Police to deter and defend against threats to UK bases and overseas territories.

“These craft will provide the MOD police with a modern, fast and effective capability for fulfilling their important role.”