The NSW Police Force Marine Area Command will boost its fleet capability with three new-era Class 3 vessels.
Today (Friday 21 February 2025), the three new vessels, valued at $5.4M, will be commissioned into service at a special ceremony at the Marine Area Command.
The official blessing of the three new vessels – the Sea Hawk, Sea Dragon and Sea Eagle – will be followed by a ceremony to launch each vessel. Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley, Commissioner Karen Webb, and Marine Area Command Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Siobhan Munro will launch the vessels respectively.
With the latest technology in engine and hull design, each vessel weighs 10 tonnes, is 12 metres in length and boasts two engines of 380 Horsepower each. The vessels are able to reach speeds of 35 knots (65kph) and now have an increased range of 250 nautical miles (460km) for offshore capabilities.
In addition, each one is equipped with the latest navigation and satellite communications equipment allowing remote integration with Search and Rescue software to better monitor and direct marine searches. This capability is boosted by the latest thermal FLIR imaging cameras capable of live streaming to a central operations centre.
The vessels are specifically designed for police enforcement with a mobile connection capability to all police systems, to better manage marine operations such as boarding, patrolling, and performing sea rescues. A minimum crew of two officers is required to operate the vessels.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley stated the NSW Government is committed to supporting the operational needs of the NSW Police Force, including the marine police.
"These new vessels are a major capability boost for our water police," Minister Catley said.
"The Sea Hawk, Sea Dragon and Sea Eagle are equipped with the latest technology and are superior in terms of speed and range compared to the previous class which was almost 20 years old."
"NSW has the best harbours and waterways anywhere in the world, so it is only natural that our police have custom-built vessels to best protect the public."
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM, said these assets will greatly enhance the operational capability of the Marine Area Command to serve the people of New South Wales.
"The three vessels have been trialled and tested and have proven they have the advanced capabilities needed for future challenges in a marine policing environment.
"It is anticipated these new vessels will operate and serve our community for at least another 15 years."
"With these advancements and the best crews operating them, the community will be well served with the Sea Hawk, Sea Dragon and Sea Eagle."
Superintendent Joe McNulty, Marine Area Command, said the vessels include improvements such as advanced hull design for a quicker response to crime and search and rescue operations. The new hydraulic lowering platforms allow for safer water recoveries. These vessels are the maritime police stations for the future policing needs of the Marine Area Command.
"In addition to each boat being fitted with the latest state-of-the-art equipment they are also fitted with increased enhancements to support crew including air conditioning and a hydraulic lifting ramp at the rear."
"They will be deployed in our major ports and harbours of Sydney, Botany Bay, Broken Bay, Newcastle and along the coastline."
