Finnish Firm to Develop Attack Boats for Latvian, Lithuanian Navies

Finnish company Marine Alutech will build fast multipurpose attack boats for Latvia and Lithuania under a new contract tied to a regional Baltic defense effort launched with Finland.

The Finnish shipbuilder has signed a deal with both Baltic states to deliver combat vessels based on its Watercat M18 design under the Common Future Multipurpose Attack Craft (CFMAC) procurement program. The agreement follows a 2024 technical pact among the three countries aimed at enhancing joint maritime defense in the region.

Under this contract, Lithuania will acquire two Watercat M18-based attack boats for its navy, specifically for use by the Coastal Defence Battalion. According to the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence, the vessels will enhance the nation’s ability to respond rapidly to threats in both littoral and inland coastal waters.

The vessels are designed to operate in shallow waters due to their specific hull structure and propulsion system. They are intended for use in various roles, including amphibious landings, evacuations, coastal patrols, escort missions, minelaying, and combat support.

The Watercat M18 AMC model, which serves as the basis for the new boats, is currently used by the Finnish Navy. It has been reviewed by other NATO countries for potential use in both military operations and tasks such as medical evacuation and emergency response.

The CFMAC procurement program remains open to other NATO members with similar naval requirements, subject to approval from current participants.