Finnish shipbuilder Marine Alutech has signed an agreement to deliver 20 Watercat vessels, based on the Watercat M9, to the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).
As disclosed, the new Watercat M9 boats will be used for transport to, between, and within the amphibious battalions’ operational and base areas.
According to Marine Alutech, the new Watercat M9 has space for eight persons and two crew members, or the option to carry smaller amounts of cargo.
The boat is characterized by ‘simplicity and durability’, and it allows for quick handling during operation, loading and unloading, the firm noted.
The new vessels are supposed to replace the old M8 group boats that Sweden has donated to Ukraine.
“It is mainly about the fact that we have taken measures to improve maritime safety and made adjustments to the needs of the new amphibious battalions,” said Agnes Moberg , project manager for FMV’s marine operations area.
The value of the contract is approximately SEK 130 million ($13.8 million). The first boat will be delivered as a pre-series unit, followed by the delivery of the rest of the boats. The final delivery will take place in 2028.