Milkor UAE Launches the Commander: The Next-Gen Patrol Vessel Soaring at 45 Knots!
Milkor UAE has officially launched the Commander, a 16-metre high-speed patrol craft engineered to provide advanced maritime security solutions to both local and global stakeholders. Built at the company’s manufacturing sites along the shores of Abu Dhabi, the Commander represents a significant leap in Milkor UAE’s foray into naval operations.
First introduced as a prototype at the World Defence Show in Riyadh in 2024, the Commander has since undergone rigorous assessments and upgrades; the vessel is now fully operational and primed for deployment.
A Tailored Platform
The Commander is meticulously crafted to address modern maritime challenges, ranging from coastal surveillance and infrastructure protection to rapid-response missions, including search and rescue and law enforcement efforts. Measuring 16 metres in length, with a beam of 4.4 metres and a draft of under one metre, the aluminium monohull design provides a combination of resilience and agility, allowing operations in shallow waters where larger vessels may struggle.
Driven by Volvo engines coupled with Hamilton waterjets, the Commander can reach speeds of up to 45 knots while maintaining a range of 500 nautical miles at cruise speeds of 35 knots. This fusion of speed and endurance renders it a versatile asset for extended patrols or quick interception missions.
Innovative Systems and Configurations
The vessel is equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors, including multimode radar, a 360-degree thermal imaging system, and an electro-optical/infrared gimbal. These advanced technologies enhance situational awareness under various weather and lighting conditions, enabling crews to identify and track potential threats with precision.
For higher-risk scenarios, the Commander offers optional ballistic protection, including bullet-resistant glass and reinforced structural elements. The craft typically functions with a primary crew of four but can be tailored to accommodate additional personnel or mission-specific equipment, providing operators with the flexibility to adapt to changing operational needs. A Strategic Breakthrough for Milkor UAE
The launch of the Commander amplifies Milkor UAE’s goal to become a key player in naval defense manufacturing. Previously recognized for its land and air defense systems, the company has made considerable investments in its Naval Defense Solutions division, which now designs and constructs vessels of up to 30 metres in length.
“The Commander embodies our ambition for locally engineered platforms that meet international standards,” stated Julian Coetzee, Chief Executive Officer at Milkor UAE. “It’s not simply about creating a high-speed patrol craft—it’s about offering a multi-role solution that operators can depend on in complicated and demanding missions.”
Meeting Evolving Maritime Needs
With rising concerns regarding piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing, and the security of vital offshore assets, maritime forces are in search of faster, more agile platforms. Milkor UAE developed the Commander to meet these demands, offering a balance of speed, range, and cutting-edge technologies in a compact, easily deployable vessel.
Looking ahead, Milkor UAE plans to expand the Commander line, introducing variants equipped with additional weapon systems or unmanned technologies to further enhance operational adaptability.
“Our focus has consistently been on developing solutions that fulfill real-world requirements,” remarked James Cottrell, Head of Marine Projects at Milkor UAE. He added, “With the Commander officially launched, we’re ready to support regional and international operators in strengthening their maritime capabilities.”
For further details about the Commander and Milkor UAE’s naval solutions, visit www.milkor.ae.
