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Norco Composites & GRP (Poole, Dorset, U.K.) was commissioned by (London, U.K.) to deliver a series of hard hulled riverine craft (HHRC) for the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD). Designed by BAE Systems, these robust, versatile craft are essential for fast raiding and assault missions, particularly in riverine environments and beach landing operations. Their compact design enables rapid deployment and mobility, making them indispensable for U.K. defense forces.

HHRC support operations in challenging environments, including river patrols, beach assaults, dive support, demolition and general service duties. Each vessel has lifting points for helicopter transport or deployment from larger vessels, enabling easy mobilization to remote and inaccessible locations. Built to meet stringent U.K. MOD regulations, these 5.2-meter craft ensure stability, reserve buoyancy and resistance to swamping.

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BAE Systems initially raised concerns regarding the ability to meet new weight targets, as the manufacturing techniques originally used in the 1990s did not align with modern requirements. Norco’s engineering team addressed these challenges by leveraging historical production methods in combination with modern quality standards.

The team conducted comprehensive market research on material availability and historic certifications, ultimately presenting an optimized material solution that met certification and customer requirements. Using a specialist epoxy hand-lay method, Norco says it not only met but exceeded the weight restrictions for the project, demonstrating precision in a skill-focused production task.

Norco’s approach resulted in a lightweight, low-profile vessel featuring reserve buoyancy from foam filling, enabling high-performance, low-draft operations in shallow waters such as rivers, swamps and beach landings. This configuration delivers the flexibility, durability and reliability that BAE Systems required for this legacy craft.

The glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) construction, enhanced with metal backing plates and under-deck hard points, ensures durability in harsh conditions, Norco reports, guaranteeing that the vessels can withstand rigorous operational demands. By delivering on weight and performance requirements, Norco successfully maintained the integrity of the original design while integrating modern material standards.

“Through our collaboration with Norco on the HHRC project, the team has delivered a product that enhances our outsourcing model and meets our high standards and capability,” says Steve Quick, boats program lead, BAE Systems. “We look forward to potential opportunities to work together in the future.”