Defence Online

26m Patrol Interceptor Vessel for Oman is released

Maritime December 9, 2019

BMT has launched the first ‘ARES 85 Hercules’ Patrol Interceptor Vessel (PIV) for ARES Shipyard in Antalya.

The vessel built by ARES Shipyard for the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard (ROPCG), is a continuation of the partnership between BMT and ARES responsible for a range of fast patrol boats between 18m-48m.

The ROPCG contract for 14 Patrol Boats within a 4-year acquisition program is well underway with the first vessel now delivered, and multiple other vessels in various stages of fit out. The vessels, which are fully customised to meet the ROPCG’s needs, will provide the agency with a much-expanded capability to patrol and secure the nation’s waters.

John Bonafoux, Director of Business Development at BMT said: “Supporting operations conducted by coast guards, police forces and navies, the boat can be deployed in marine patrol and surveillance in territorial seas, anti-smuggling interceptor duties, marine law enforcement operations, special forces operations, and rapid response actions. It can also be used to support offshore and fast patrol vessels during operations at sea.”

During initial sea trials the vessel was praised for its exceptional performance reaching a speed of 52 knots, highlighting the high efficiency of the vessel whilst maintaining superior seakeeping performance and manoeuvrability. With its upright wheelhouse providing excellent visibility alongside low noise attenuation throughout, the vessel will undoubtably prove to be an excellent asset to the ROPCG in active duty.

image courtesy of BMT

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ARES 85 Hercules BMT Oman Patrol Interceptor Vessel ROPCG Royal Oman Police Coast Guard

Post written by: Matt Brown