An unmanned fast rigid inflatable boat, capable of patrolling autonomously for 45 hours or pursuing hostile targets at 38kts for 100 miles is entering sea trials with the Royal Navy. The crewless Pacific 24 boat is based on the current RIB in service with the Royal Navy - which is used in a wide range of roles, from landing commandos on shore to raiding vessels suspected of smuggling drugs. Some £3m is being invested in the project in what the Royal Navy are describing as the 'fleet of tomorrow'. According to the Royal Navy: 'The Pacific 24 has been the backbone of sea boat operations from Royal Navy warships for more than a quarter of a century, with the latest variant, the Mark 4, introduced four years ago. According to the Royal Navy, the boat's hull and propulsion systems are the same as the conventional version.

Source: Daily Mail June 24, 2020 11:41 UTC