U.S Patrol boat
A swift, agile, and lethal craft, the Mark VI patrol boat was developed to operate in shallow, contested coastal regions where larger vessels cannot maneuver effectively. Designed for persistent protection of ports, friendly ships, and critical infrastructure, it was conceived as a modern replacement for aging patrol assets, with enhanced capabilities for 21st-century naval operations.
The vessel was developed and built by Safe Boats International, a U.S.-based company known for producing rugged, mission-ready maritime platforms. The initial design and production contracts began in the early 2010s, and by 2018, a dozen units had been delivered to the U.S. Navy. At one point, the Navy had envisioned acquiring as many as 48, though only 12 were ultimately produced.
Constructed with an aluminum hull, the craft measures just under 85 feet in length. Its design includes ballistic protection in critical areas and features a reconfigurable mission space. Twin MTU diesel engines coupled with Hamilton waterjets provide exceptional propulsion, allowing for speeds exceeding 35 knots and an operational range of around 600 nautical miles. A retractable mast enables stowage in amphibious ship well decks, increasing its deployability.
Crewed by 10 sailors, with accommodations for up to 18 personnel, the interior offers comfort for extended missions. Shock-absorbing seating, berthing, a galley, and climate-controlled spaces help maintain crew effectiveness even in rough sea states. The aft cabin is modular, allowing reconfiguration for special operations teams, medical triage, or the deployment of unmanned systems, depending on mission requirements.
In terms of firepower, the vessel comes well-equipped for threats in littoral zones. Its standard armament includes two remotely operated 25mm chain guns and six crew-served .50-caliber machine guns. The mounts are adaptable, capable of supporting other weapons such as M240s, grenade launchers, or M134 miniguns. Some units have been evaluated for integration with precision-guided weapons, including the Griffin missile system, though these have not been widely deployed. Lightweight armor provides protection for engines, fuel systems, and crew compartments without compromising speed or maneuverability.
Operational deployment began around 2015, with the first two units entering service with a coastal riverine group. Soon after, they were deployed to strategic locations such as the Persian Gulf and Guam, where they conducted patrols, escorted high-value assets, and participated in exercises and real-world security operations. Their relatively small size and low draft make them ideal for interdiction, surveillance, and insertion of special operations forces.
While the original production was capped at 12 units, discussions continue about future variants or replacements. The concept of a fast, versatile, and modular patrol craft remains relevant in today’s shifting naval strategies, particularly with the increasing emphasis on distributed operations in contested maritime regions.
