Merseyside-based Marine Specialised Technology (MST) has contracted NORCO to construct two new vessels to replace the interim Gibraltar Squadron Fast Patrol Crafts. The company specialises in manufacturing large composite structures and GRP mouldings.
Mark Northey, managing director at NORCO, said: “I am very happy to be working in partnership with MST again. Here at NORCO, we pride ourselves on developing successful relationships with our customers to gain repeat business. This project will add to our portfolio of defence contracts, which demonstrates our ability to deliver product that meets the stringent quality standards of the MoD.”
The construction of the two boats begins in July 2020 and will take approximately 18 months, with boat one due to be delivered in Q3 2021/22 and boat two in Q1 2022/23. NORCO will manufacture the complete structure (hull, deck, and wheelhouse) for the two vessels in line with MST’s production schedule.
Gibraltar Squadron Fast Patrol Craft, HMS Pursuer and Dasher, two Archer-class vessels, have recently taken over from Scimitar-Class vessels HMS Sabre and HMS Scimitar, whilst the two MST vessels are under-construction.
The Scimitar Class vessels had been in service in Gibraltar for 17 years and were due an upgrade as part of the Royal Navy’s modernisation programme. These vessels maintain the security of British Gibraltar Territorial Waters.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
