35M FPV-class

Summary

Description

The Swiftships Model 35PB1208 E-1455, a patrol boat ordered by the Iraqi Navy, began service in October 2010 with the first delivery. Swiftships Shipbuilders was contracted to build the vessels, with the first accepted in October 2010, and by September 2011, a total of six had been delivered. The contract includes a provision for a total of up to 15 boats, with the initial order for 12 and an option for an additional three patrol boats.

The origins of the 35M Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) can be traced back to a December 2008 announcement by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency about Iraq's request to purchase up to 20 Coastal Patrol Boats and 3 Offshore Support Vessels. In July 2009, NAVSEA announced Swiftships Shipbuilders would construct up to 15 boats for the Iraqi Navy, and the company received a $181 million contract in September 2009. The design of these FPVs was later adopted for use by the Bahrain Navy, which received two 35FPVs in February 2021 following US State Department approval in September 2017.

The design of the FPVs features an all-welded aluminum hull and superstructure with seven watertight bulkheads creating eight compartments. Refueling at sea is possible through side-by-side procedures, and the vessels run on #2 diesel fuel. Weather survivability includes maintaining full operational capability at Sea State 3 and survival at Sea State 5, with upgrading in April 2022 indicating a full operational capability now at Sea State 4 and an increase in the patrol speed to 25 knots.

The operating countries of the 35M patrol boats are primarily Iraq, with a subsequent adoption by Bahrain for the slightly modified 35FPVs. Iraq's ongoing partnership with Swiftships and Bahrain's commissioning of two 35FPVs showcase the 35M's broader operational context in the Middle East.

Technical specifications