New Indonesian patrol boats to combat smuggling and crime

As part of its joint effort to combat smuggling and transnational crime, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) delivered three new high-speed patrol boats to the Indonesian National Police. “Australia and Indonesia agree that people smuggling is a complex problem that requires a multi-faceted regional solution and regional law enforcement cooperation,” said Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor. “This project recognizes the need to develop a sustainable regional response to irregular migration, that there is no quick fix.”

Designed and constructed by Western Australian shipbuilder Strategic Marine, the 16 m long, aluminum hull boats are equipped for high-level surveillance. The vessels can operate covertly in the dark using night vision equipment and infrared spotlights to light up boats without alerting the suspect vessel.

“We are excited to have been provided this opportunity by the AFP to deliver world class patrol vessels designed to take on the operational challenges faced by today’s law enforcement and defense departments,” said Scott Nicholls, Chief Operating Officer, Strategic Marine. “Strategic Marine has a strong history of producing vessels for defense and police service contracts with over 240 maritime security vessels delivered to date world-wide.”

The $7.1 million project was funded by a grant given to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in 2010—part of a new policy initiative to Enhancing Regional Law Enforcement Capacity.

According to Nicholls, Strategic Marine is currently providing the Indonesian Police with training on key design features and operation of the vessels.

Operations are expected to begin later this month.