Anti-Smuggler Speedboats for Kuwait

December 13, 2005: Kuwait is spending $175 million to get a dozen MKV-C fast interceptor boats. The 35 foot boats are similar to those used by U.S. Navy SEAL commandoes to get in and out of dangerous places. Capable of speeds of over 70 kilometers an hour, the Kuwaiti boats will be equipped with a 27mm automatic cannon, radar and other electronics. The Kuwaitis want a fast patrol boat to deal with smugglers and terrorists along their coast, and protect numerous offshore oil pumping facilities. At the moment, Kuwait does not have any high speed boats for coastal patrol. The boats are being built in yards near New Orleans.