Australia’s Northern Territory Police acquires patrol RIB

Australia’s Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services recently took delivery of a new fast patrol boat built by Western Australia-based Dongara Marine.

Deutrom was purpose designed, built, and equipped for police operations requiring very high speed and the ability to carry multiple personnel. Design work was provided by Southerly Designs.

Dongara Marine also supplied a custom, heavy duty aluminium trailer to enable the vessel to be used throughout NT’s diverse and often remote maritime landscape.

The 8.4-metre by 3.1-metre, custom rigid inflatable boat (RIB) has an aluminium hull, a foam-filled collar, and a control console set up for two-person operation. Directly ahead of the console are jockey-style seats for another four personnel.

A canvas and aluminium awning extends from the helm console aft.

The console provides stowage for essential equipment. Weapons stowage is also provided, and there is a dedicated Samson post aft for towing disabled or apprehended vessels.

Two Mercury 223kW outboard engines propel the RIB to speeds of up to 50 knots.