Three decommissioned Landing Craft Air Cushion (Light) hovercraft formerly used by the Royal Marines will get a new lease of life with the Pakistan Navy in deal struck by Defence Equipment & Support.
As per a recent press statement, the Exports & Sales Team of the Ministry of Defence body which supplies kit to all three British armed forces has agreed the sale of the three craft. Pakistan’s armed forces have used LCAC(L)s for more than two decades.
Southampton-based Griffon Marine Support has won a contract to refurbish the vehicles, decommissioned from service with the Royal Marines in 2021, and prepare them for transfer.
Commodore Richard Whalley, Head of Exports and Sales at DE&S, said: “This sale continues a long history of excellent defence equipment sales with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and reaffirms our positive defence relations.
“By transferring these proven assets, we are supporting the Pakistan Navy’s ability to enhance its coastal and amphibious operations, supporting our shared goal of maintaining global security as well as providing a return for the U.K.’s defence budget.”
A Pakistan Navy spokesman said: “The Pakistan Navy values its defence cooperation with the U.K. This is evident through joint exercises, training exchanges, defence acquisitions and collaborative efforts in maritime security.
“Our recent acquisition of hovercraft from the U.K. will enhance our defence capabilities, particularly in maritime security and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Operations.”
- You can read more details on the DE&S website