Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, has won a contract to supply water jets to power Marine Alutech Oy Ab’s new Watercat™ M18 AMC high speed troop transport craft, that are currently under construction for the Finnish Navy.
The boats, classified as U700, are designed and built by the Marine Alutech shipyard in Teijo, Finland, which specialises in patrol and military vessels.
The contract, for 12 craft, will involve the supply of Rolls-Royce 40A3 water jets (two per craft), and a state-of-art control system that will enhance the manoeuvring capabilities of the vessels.
Andrew Marsh, Rolls-Royce, President – Naval, said: “This latest contract reaffirms our leading position in the supply of water jet technology for a variety of naval craft, where speed, manoeuvrability and the capability to operate in shallow waters are crucial customer requirements. We’re delighted to be working with Marine Alutech and building on our excellent relationship with the Finnish Navy.”
The 19 metre long vessels will be able to reach speeds in excess of 40 knots and are suitable for a range of duties including troop transportation, medical and evacuation tasks, and landing operations. They are designed to operate in archipelago, coastal and offshore conditions, and will enter service from the middle of 2014.
Water jets enable operation in shallow waters and offer higher speeds and better manoeuvrability than conventional propellers. These features are particularly relevant for the shallow coastlines around Finland and the demands set for landing operations.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, December 17, 2012; Image: SCANIA