MST and BMT Vessel Surpassing Requirements
Marine Specialised Technology Group (MST), and design partner BMT, announced on 16 November that HMS CUTLASS, the first of two vessels being built for the Royal Navy’s Gibraltar Squadron, has undergone initial trials and has performed beyond expectations.
Over recent weeks, the new HPB-1900 has been subjected to rigorous trials to test all systems and performance against a demanding set of customer-specified requirements. The latest speed trials showed that HMS CUTLASS is meeting and surpassing them. The vessel is powered by three Volvo D13 engines, each producing 1,000hp and driving triple MJP 350X waterjets. It features unparalleled levels of innovation and technology, with the hull form design offering excellent seakeeping characteristics and, combined with Humphree stabilisation fins for the most extreme sea states, is designed for even the most demanding conditions. Operational efficiency is provided by the integrated CGI OpenSea360 bridge system and enhanced situational awareness equipment.
HMS CUTLASS, and HMS DAGGER (expected to be delivered in late 2022/early 2023), will be essential assets for the maritime defence and security of Gibraltar and its surrounding waters. Both vessels are a major step forward in capability for the Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron. The two companies are also working on the HPB-1500 Police Patrol Craft, being built for the MoD and Gibraltar Defence Police (MDP/GDP). These vessels will join MST’s growing range of proven high-speed patrol craft, which now range from 10.5-23m in length.
“The craft is also a testament to the close cooperation between the teams in BMT and MST, supported by a supply chain that has managed to deliver a highly innovative design and build whilst dealing with the challenges of lockdowns and uncertainties brought by the COVID pandemic. Our portfolio of patrol boat designs in service around the world is extensive, ranging from 15m all the way to large offshore patrol vessels,” commented Martin Bissuel, Business Sector Lead at BMT Specialised Ship Design.