SAFE Boats International has bagged $34.5 million contract to provide four additional MkVI patrol boats to the US Navy.
The agreement includes options for another two boats, which if exercised would bring the total value of the contract to $52.2m.
Powered by twin diesel engines and water jets, the MkVI PB is capable of cruising at speeds in excess of 30k at full load, has ballistic protection and can be armed with a variety of crew-served and remotely operated weapons systems.
Designed for optimal performance, fuel economy and firepower, the 85ft-long boats will reduce total ownership cost (TOC) and manpower, while improving reliability and maintainability.
MkVI PB will complement the navy expeditionary combat command's (NECC) fleet of combatant craft. SBI received a contract in 2012 to supply six patrol boats to the navy, with the first scheduled to be delivered later this year