Marine to introduce 1st high-speed combat boat

A high-speed combat boat set to be delivered to the Marine Corps is on display at a shipyard in the southeastern city of Busan, Thursday. Courtesy of the Marine Corps

The Marine Corps was set to hold a ceremony on Thursday to launch its first high-speed combat boat, in a move expected to bolster its maneuverability and survivability when deployed.

The 18-meter-long vessel, fitted with a remote-controlled weapon station, can move much faster in shallow waters and is partially bulletproof, compared with existing rigid inflatable boats, according to the armed service.

The boat was named the Marlin, after the ocean fish known for its speed and spear-like upper jaw, to symbolize the new vessel's role, it added.

The boat is set to be delivered to the Marine Corps in December next year and will be deployed after operational procedures.