October 10, 2009: Iraq is buying nine 115 foot (35 meter) patrol boats from U.S. firm Swiftships. The 24 foot wide ships have a five foot draft, and are designed to patrol coastal waters, out to 300 kilometers from land. The crew of twelve have sleeping quarters, showers and a full kitchen. The Iraqi ships, which will cost $20 million each (including maintenance and training). And are armed with a 30mm autocannon, plus machine-guns and assault rifles for the crew. Top speed is 45 kilometers an hour. The ship carries GPS, direction finder and electronic navigation charts. There are two navigation radars and a remote display for it in addition to the fixed one on the bridge. Propulsion is via waterjets, making the ship very maneuverable. There is a rescue platform in the rear (aft) of the ship, along with a rigid inflatable boat with an outboard motor. The aluminum hulled ship can handle rough weather up to Sea State 4 (up to 8 foot, or 2.5 meter, waves) and can stay at sea for several days at a time. The ships will be built in Louisiana.
