UK transfers three ex-Royal Marines hovercraft to Pakistan Navy

One of the ex-Royal Marines hovercraft that has been sold to the Pakistan Navy. (DE&S)

UK's Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) has sold three hovercraft that were formerly in service with the Royal Marines to the Pakistan Navy in a government-to-government deal, the agency announced on 30 June.

The hovercraft were decommissioned from Royal Marines service in 2021 and subsequently identified by the sales team at DE&S as being well suited for Pakistan's maritime environment, the agency added.

DE&S awarded a contract to refurbish and prepare the hovercraft for transfer to UK-based Griffon Marine Support in 2022.

According to DE&S, the hovercraft has a capability that would enable the Pakistan Navy to carry out coastal patrols, humanitarian assistance operations, and rapid deployment missions within shallow waters.

“By transferring these proven assets, we are supporting the Pakistan Navy's ability to enhance its coastal and amphibious operations, supporting our shared goal of maintaining global security as well as providing a return for the UK's defence budget,” said Commodore Richard Whalley, head of Exports and Sales at DE&S.

No details on the hovercraft were given by DE&S in its statement, but images accompanying it indicate that hovercraft that have been transferred are the 2400TD(M)-class landing craft air cushions (LCACs) manufactured by Griffon.

These LCACs are known to have formerly been in service with the 539 Assault Squadron of the Royal Marines.

The 10.6 tonne hovercraft has an overall length of 13.4 m on cushion. Powered by Deutz V8 water-cooled diesel engines, the hovercraft can attain a top speed of 35 kt and a standard range of 300 n miles at 25 kt.