They will be used by SMIT International for training military aircrew in marine survival techniques, helicopter winching drills and general marine support tasks as part of a Public Private Partnership Programme awarded by the UK's Ministry of Defence.

The vessels are an adaptation of FBM Babcock Marine's 27m patrol vessel, with an aft docking well for RIBs or for torpedo recovery, a full width stern training platform, and clear deck areas for helicopter winching drills.

Featuring aluminium hulls and superstructure, the vessels are powered by twin engines driving propellers and an additional centre line engine powering a waterjet. The combination provides speeds of up to 22 knots. The waterjet allows the craft to operate economically at slow speed for long periods of time and also optimises manoeuvrability. The design provides accommodation for a crew of six and a range of 650 nautical miles.

FBM Babcock Marine's Philippines yard could also be called upon to build the first of a recently revealed design for a 42.5m fast surface piercing vessel (FSPV), a high speed fast ferry which promises speeds of up to 40 knots through rough seas.

Following a three year test programme, FBM Babcock Marine believes the new design will answer the prayers of fast ferry operators who have trouble maintaining schedules through bad weather. The design combines a small waterplane area twin hull (SWATH) with waterjets to promise high levels of comfort through rough seas for up to 400 passengers in two cabins. Two submerged lower hulls are connected by thin struts to the main body of the craft. The designated propulsion system calls for power from a twin combined diesel and gas (CODAG) configuration driven by two 5,545 kW engines.

MJ Information No: 18313