UK’s patrol boat HMS Cutlass completes initial trials

HMS Cutlass, the first of two vessels being built for the Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron, has undergone initial trials and has performed “beyond expectations”, UK-based company BMT Group revealed.

Over recent weeks, the new HPB-1900 has been subjected to rigorous trials to test all systems and performance against a demanding set of requirements specified by the Royal Navy. 

The vessel is powered by three Volvo D13 engines, each producing 1000 HP and driving triple MJP 350X Waterjets and features unparalleled levels of innovation and technology. The design of the hull form offers great seakeeping characteristics and combined with Humphree stabilisation fins for the most extreme sea states is designed for performance even in the most demanding conditions. Operational efficiency is provided by the integrated CGI OpenSea360 bridge system and enhanced situational awareness equipment.

HMS CUTLASS, and the forthcoming HMS DAGGER which is expected to be delivered in Q4 2022/Q1 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.

BMT Group is conducting the project together with Marine Specialised Technology Group. The two companies are working on the HPB-1500 police patrol craft being built for the UK Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) and Gibraltar Defence Police (GDP). These vessels will join MST’s growing range of well-proven high-speed patrol craft which now range from 10.5 meters up to 23.0 meters in length.

In April this year, the Royal Navy confirmed the names of two new fast patrol boats – HM Ships Dagger and Cutlass.