New patrol craft to replace Gibraltar Squadron’s interim Archer class
The UK RN’s Gibraltar Squadron looks set to benefit from the introduction of two new patrol craft, after a 24 July announcement by the MoD revealed a £9.9 million ($12.6 million) contract award to UK-based Marine Specialised Technology (MST) for vessel manufacture and platform support.
Tasked with patrolling and securing Gibraltar’s territorial waters, the RN operates from HMNB Gibraltar which is strategically located at the western entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. The base regularly hosts UK and allied naval vessels operating in the region, with patrol craft providing force protection for visiting ships.
However, NATO ally Spain refuses to recognise
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
![US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests]()
US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
-
![From Poland to the Pacific: can Miecznik become a blueprint for other navies?]()
From Poland to the Pacific: can Miecznik become a blueprint for other navies?
Babcock is taking its Polish industrial partnership approach to Denmark and New Zealand as navies seek sovereign shipbuilding skills alongside ships.
