Hellenic Coast Guard orders seven SAR patrol vessels

Hellenic Coast Guard is investing €23.8M (US$26.6M in the construction of a new fleet of vessels to enhance its search and rescue and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Viking Life-Saving Equipment will build these 21-m high-speed patrol vessels under a contract signed by Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, at a ceremony at the Ministry in Athens.

They will be Viking Norsafe Magnar 1950-type vessels capable of reaching at least 50 knots, with an operating range of 320 nautical miles, plus accommodation for six crew members and space to carry at least 30 people.

The contract also includes an option for up to seven additional vessels of the same type if required.

Deliveries are due to start within the next six to 12 months, with vessels handed over in succession.

Once in service, they will support the Hellenic Coast Guard’s core missions of surveillance of Greek waters, protection of the country’s maritime borders, fisheries control, and search and rescue following marine emergencies.

Mr Kikilias said delivering these patrol vessels will improve the Hellenic Coast Guard’s work and support its crews.

He said the goal is “to make their job easier, facing the challenges of today and tomorrow.”