Hampshire Police marine support unit has new high speed boat

Hampshire police’s marine support unit has a new high speed rigid inflatable boat equipped for prolonged sea searches.

Named Defender, the RHIB gives officers the ability to patrol and deploy across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’s 287 miles of coastline. It also allows officers to board vessels of all sizes.

A force spokesperson added: “The new vessel can be requested by neighbouring forces including Kent, Sussex, Dorset, and Devon and Cornwall, and to support national maritime incidents or events further afield.

”It comfortably hosts specialist police teams including armed officers, police dogs, negotiators and public order officers, whilst maintaining excellent high speed capability.”

‘Defender’ is crewed by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Marine Support Unit. The team also provides maritime policing services to all of the inland waterways of the Thames Valley force area.

Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: "The addition of the Defender to our fleet is a game-changer for the Marine Support Unit. This high-speed boat is a testament to our dedication to safeguarding our coastal and inland waterways.

“The Solent is a complex maritime environment to police. Its narrow channels, tides and weather conditions can complicate enforcement efforts, but Defender’s advanced features and increased capacity means we can address threats at sea with unparalleled efficiency and precision.”