VESSEL REVIEW | Argus 22 – Antwerp Police’s new fast response craft

Belgium's Antwerp Police has begun operating a new all-aluminium patrol and emergency response craft.

Named Argus 22 after a Greek mythological figure, the centre console boat was built by Stormer Marine of the Netherlands. Its duties will include law enforcement and crime prevention patrols and water rescues, the latter role being performed in collaboration with the Antwerp Fire and Rescue Service.

The boat has an LOA of six metres, a moulded beam of 2.3 metres, a draught of 0.4 metres, a displacement of 1,400 kilograms, and a self-draining deck with seating for up to six people including two crewmembers. A bow storage locker has capacity for 0.7 cubic metres while a stern locker can store up to 0.45 cubic metres.

The boat is powered by a single Yamaha outboard engine and is also fitted with tow posts and a rotating camera. Transport via trailer is also possible.

Stormer Marine said the hull shape is designed for search and rescue (SAR) missions in the most demanding situations. The two crewmembers are provided with Ullman Dynamics jockey shock-absorbing seats and are protected by the wide centre console. A special bow fender provides additional protection.

A Teledyne FLIR rotating thermal camera assists the crew when navigating and conducting SAR missions under low-visibility conditions.

The vessel is also the first newbuild boat to enter service with the Antwerp Police in 30 years. It will be operated primarily in the waters of the city's Het Eilandje community.

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