Halmatic and Cougar announce alliance

Leading boatbuilder Halmatic, part of the Vosper Thornycroft Group, has formed an alliance with Cougar to market and build the latter's successful range of Ultra Fast Patrol Boats (UFPBs).

Halmatic has an extensive portfolio of customers in the UK and overseas for its range of workboats and other specialist vessels. The alliance with Cougar will enable Halmatic to expand its product range and provide Cougar with the benefits of a financially strong and respected partner.

Halmatic will market, contract and build all military and commercial versions of Cougar's UFPBs with Cougar retaining the position of design authority for current and future craft. Cougar will also continue to build its range of fast race and leisure boats at its yard on the River Hamble, near Southampton.

Halmatic Managing Director Mike Burnham commented: "We are confident that we can expand the client base for Cougar's proven product range by utilising the world-wide expertise of Halmatic and parent company Vosper Thornycroft.

"There will also be major benefits to customers in the use of Halmatic's modern production facilities and our extensive support sales network."

Cougar is owned by the Curtis family, Clive and Steve Curtis who has been three times World Champion power boat racer. Clive added: "We are partnering with one of the most respected names in the specialist boat industry and this relationship will provide a much greater platform for Cougar products."

Production will commence at Halmatic's Portchester shipyard with three versions of the Cougar Enforcer craft, between 33 feet and 46 feet, and a smaller catamaran. Targeted markets will include Police and Paramilitary forces requiring high speed interceptors to combat the growing international problem of drug trafficking, illegal immigration and smuggling.

Military applications for the Enforcer range include fast counter-insurgence patrol boats designed for moving small surveillance, interdiction or commando units and light armament with the maximum surprise and minimum delay. Inboard or outboard powered, with twin or triple engines, UFPBs can be specified to offer speeds between 40-70 knots with reliability and comfort.

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