The U.S. State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Egypt of 28-Meter Patrol Craft Kits and related equipment for an estimated cost of $129 million. The Government of Egypt has requested to buy additional non-Major Defense Equipment (MDE) 28-meter patrol craft production kits and technical support. The kits consist of Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats, forward-looking infrared systems, and computer packages; technical and logistics support services; transportation; spare parts, materials, equipment, and components; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The proposed sale will improve Egypt’s capacity to sustain security operations and strengthen its internal and external defense capabilities. The proposed sale will assist the Government of Egypt’s maritime patrol and interdiction efforts to contribute to regional maritime security efforts in the Mediterranean and Red Sea. The principal contractor will be Swiftships, of Morgan City, LA.
Egyptian Navy and Swiftships partnership features a benchmarkable co-production model and successful partnership. The relationship between parties started in the earlier nineties with delivery of two (2) 54m Missile Retrievers and grew to a massive scale serial Co-production of 28m Coast Patrol Craft (CPC). By combining FMS and DCS contracts, 49 CPCs to be produced by 2027, including built, under-construction and ordered. The scope of work included planning yard and sustainment site for Egyptian Navy in Alexandria to construct 28 meter Coast Patrol Craft (CPC28) using US procured material and in-country labor under Swiftships Subject Matter Expert (SME) support and QA guidelines from ABS. Swiftships BOT (Build, Operate & Transfer) approach secured complete Transferred of Technology (ToT) and Transfer of Production (ToP) to Egypt, along with a complete training program to manufacture and life-time support of ships for the Egyptian Navy (EN). This, over 40 years partnership is successfully progressing, and over 50 CPC28 are booked to be constructed until 2027.
The Swiftships’ 28 Meter Patrol Boat is a comprehensive solution for multiple roles, including coastal defense, anti-surface operations, Maritime Security Operations (MSO), Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO), surveillance, intelligence gathering, search and rescue, and more. With a length of 93 feet (28.3 meters), a beam of 18.7 feet (5.7 meters), and a draft of 6.75 feet (2.06 meters), this vessel is perfectly configured for diverse maritime challenges. The boat is based on an exceptionally well proven hull and can be built in all steel, all aluminum or a steel hull with aluminum superstructure. Weather survivability includes sea state 5 at the best heading and fully operational capability at sea state 3. This vessel runs on diesel fuel, has a top speed of 25 knots and a range of 900 nautical miles. Maximum range can be increased by side-by-side refueling at sea. Boasting a range of 1,667 kilometers (900 nautical miles), the 28 Meter Patrol Boat ensures swift and efficient responses to emerging threats
The vessel is armed to the teeth with three .50 caliber machine guns strategically positioned—one forward and two on the open bridge (port and starboard). The armament includes three Mk 93 .50 caliber mounts with Mk 16 tripods, offering flexibility for the use of .50 cal, MK19, M60, and/or M240 machine guns. This firepower ensures the boat’s effectiveness in deterring and responding to potential threats. Equipped with cutting-edge electronics, including a Sperry Marine Navigation system and a Night Vision Device (Electro Optical System), the 28 Meter Patrol Boat ensures precise navigation and surveillance capabilities. The vessel is further fortified with an Intercom/Loudhailer System, Handheld Portable Radios, and a Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS) for Sea Area A3, enhancing communication and distress response. With berthing for 24 personnel, the boat prioritizes the well-being of its crew. Crew and officer quarters are equipped with berths and lockers, providing a comfortable living space and ensures that the crew is well-fed and ready for action.
