WATER police in the Hunter will have access to brand new boats after a new fleet was unveiled in Sydney on Wednesday.
Four new rigid-hulled inflatable boats will be spread between Newcastle, Sydney, Sans Souci and Port Kembla.
The boats are slated for use in counter terrorist, fast roping operations, port security, search and rescue, emergency management and criminal detection including boarding vessels. The command has trained 10 tactical drivers and 15 boarding officers to use the craft.
The state government spent $4.1 million on the purpose-built boats, which were built by Australian company Zodiac Milpro.
Deputy Commissioner Malcolm Lanyon said officers attached to the Marine Area Command were instrumental in the design of these fit-for-purpose tactical vessels.
"Importantly these fast, agile and responsive vessels are a significant boost to our capabilities to prevent, disrupt and respond to crime on the water," he said.
