BMT completes sea trials of 24m Ares 75 Hercules patrol boat

Qatar coastguard has placed an order to build 17 patrol boats from advanced composites and BMT has partnered with Ares in the design and construction of the patrol boats.

The order includes three different vessel sizes ranging between 5 of 24 metres, 10 of 34 metres that can reach speeds of more than 30 knots and 2 of 48 metres, which can also reach over 30 knots.

In the recent trials, the 24 metered Hercules patrol boat were tested and they reached a speed of over 38 knots in laden condition. BMT claimed that the tests have been hailed as success.

It also said that the first 34 metered Hercules patrol boat has started its sea trials and will be soon be completed. According to BMT, it will deliver a total of three boats by the end of December 2016.

BMT claimed that the naval architecture which includes hull development and class level design and engineering work on all the three sizes have been designed by its team of naval architects and engineers.

It also said that its teams have been working closely with Ares in the development and design of the vessels which need to meet the stringent performance and comfort requirements given by client.

BMT Nigel Gee managing director John Bonafoux said: “We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Ares and for the opportunity to extend and reinforce our expertise in high speed patrol boats. 

“We have partnered with Ares on a wide variety of projects and enjoy working with such a skilled yard. The speed, seakeeping, handling and noise levels during the sea trials were all excellent and the build quality is outstanding.”