Rolls-Royce water jets for Finnish 40 knot transporters

DECEMBER 17, 2012 — Rolls-Royce water jets will power 12  high speed Watercat M18 AMC troop transport craft currently under construction for the Finnish Navy at the Marine Alutech shipyard in Teijo, Finland, which specializes in patrol and military vessels.

The contract will involve the supply of Rolls-Royce 40A3 water jets (two per craft), and a state-of-art control system that will enhance the maneuvering 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, maneuverability 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 m 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 maneuverability than conventional propellers. These features are particularly relevant for the shallow coastlines around Finland and the demands set for landing operations.

M18 AMC

Watercat M18 AMC general characteristics:
Length     19.3 m
Beam     4.40 m
Draft     0.96 m
Displacement     290 metric ton