US coastal force seeks 'intimidating' patrol boat
The US Navy's Coastal Riverine Force (CRF) is looking to replace up to 160 of its 25ft and 34ft force protection boats with a larger craft of unambiguously warlike appearance.
Designated PB-X, the new patrol boat will have an overall length of about 40-50ft (12.2-15.2m) and a topside designed to 'create an intimidating presence and impression on all observers', according to Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).
Market survey documents issued by NAVSEA suggest the craft will be armed with four 12.7mm machine guns – one of them on a Sea Protector remote mount supplied by Kongsberg Protech – and two
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles]()
The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
-
![The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea]()
The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
-
![Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA]()
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
![L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts]()
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
![BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft]()
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
