Virginia State Police acquires new enforcement boat

The Virginia State Police (VSP) has taken delivery of a new interceptor boat for use by its Special Operations Division.

Built by Ocean Craft Marine of Annapolis, Maryland, the 31-foot (9.5-metre) rigid inflatable boat (RIB) has advanced features that will enhance the VSP's tactical response capabilities and provide for an enhanced low-visibility navigation capability.

An advanced FRP hull form will ensure high performance and improved manoeuvrability even under challenging operating conditions. The electronics suite includes a Garmin radar and a rotating thermal camera mounted on the centre console T-top.

The inflatable collar is made from military thickness 1670 DTEX and is fitted with seven compartmentalised chambers as well as inflation and over-pressure relief valves. Four jockey straddle seats are available for the coxswain and the other crewmembers.

Power for the RIB is provided by two Mercury Marine outboard engines.

The VSP interceptor's other duties will include search and rescue (SAR), surveillance, and maritime interdiction.