Finnish shipbuilder wins 20-vessel Defence contract
Finnish shipbuilder Marine Alutech Oy Ab will supply the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) with 20 vessels to replace boats donated to Ukraine.
The new Watercat M9 boats will replace the old M8 group boats that Sweden handed to Ukraine as part of its military support for the country during the conflict with Russia.
The M8 boats are amphibious and designed for rapid deployment in the shallower coastal and river waters.
The new Watercat M9s will be used for transport to, between and within the Swedish battalions’ operational and base areas, Marine Alutech says.
The new group boats have improved capabilities compared to the older version.
“The main thing is that we have taken measures to improve maritime safety and adapt to the needs of the new amphibious battalions,” said Agnes Moberg, project manager for FMV’s marine division.
The basic agreement is worth about SEK130 million (€11 million). The first boat will be delivered as a pre-series boat, and the rest of the boats are scheduled to be delivered in 2028.
“The new Watercat M9 has space for eight persons and two crew members, or the options to carry smaller amounts of cargo,” it says. “The boat is characterised by simplicity and durability, and it allows for quick handling during operation, loading and unloading.”
Marine Alutech designs and manufactures fast patrol boats, landing craft, combat boats and workboats. They are designed for demanding maritime environments such as coastal, river and littoral zones, and are capable of speeds of up to 60 knots.
The company, which is based in Teijo, has supplied vessels to various defence and security forces worldwide, including the Finnish Navy, Swedish Navy, and Royal Malaysian Police.
