Pakistan Navy acquires three advanced Hovercraft from UK

ISLAMABAD: The Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) has confirmed that three state-of-the-art Royal Marines hovercraft have been sold to the Pakistan Navy under a government-to-government agreement.

Previously operated by 539 Assault Squadron Royal Marines and withdrawn from service in 2021, the Landing Craft Air Cushion (Light) or LCAC(L) has been re-instated and handed over to the Pakistan Navy as part of the UK’s initiative to provide additional military equipment to partner nations.

The hovercraft, which are capable of operating on both land and water, are well suited to Pakistan’s coastal geography. They will be used for shallow water patrols, aquatic life support, humanitarian assistance, and rapid deployment operations.

The vessels were developed for delivery by Southampton-based Griffin Marine Support, under contract to DE&S. Griffin Marine Support will also provide ongoing in-service support for the hovercraft under a direct contract with the Pakistan Navy.

Commodore Richard Whaley, Head of Export and Sales at DE&S, said that this transfer builds on the long-standing defence relationship with Pakistan. He said that providing these proven assets supports the Pakistan Navy’s littoral and aquatic operations, contributes to global security and benefits the UK’s defence budget.

A Pakistan Navy spokesperson described the acquisition as part of a wider strategic partnership with the UK, highlighting ongoing cooperation through joint exercises, training and defence acquisitions. The spokesperson added that the new hovercraft will enhance Pakistan’s maritime security and its capability for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.