Strategic Marine inks deal to build modular attack surface craft

The vessel will be built in Singapore.

Singapore-based shipbuilder Strategic Marine has signed a deal with US-based Eureka Naval Craft to build the first-ever Aircat Bengal MC Modular Attack Surface Craft.

In a statement, Strategic Marine said the memorandum of understanding “will give a significant boost to the global maritime sector and brings together Eureka’s pioneering modular naval Surface Effect Ship (SES) design and Strategic Marine’s world-class shipbuilding expertise.”

The 36m modular platform Aircat Bengal MC is based on the proven Aircat Crewliner 35 SES, originally designed by ESNA AS in collaboration with Aircat Vessels and further developed by Eureka.

Amongst its features, the vessel is designed to integrate and swap a wide array of mission modules and payloads, including advanced sensors, unmanned systems, weapons, communications suites, and specialised equipment for both defence and civilian operations.

Meanwhile, the Aircat Bengal MC’s large aft deck, substantial ~40-ton payload capacity, and high speed make it a valuable asset for offshore oil and gas exploration and production logistics.

“The expansive aft deck is ideal for transporting equipment, supplies, and personnel to and from offshore platforms, whilst the vessel’s stability and speed ensure safe and efficient operations even in challenging sea conditions,” Strategic Marine said.

The Aircat Bengal MC also enables the fast movement of time-critical items offshore for urgent maintenance, repairs, or supply needs, as well as fast and safe mode of personnel transfer offshore.