Three state-of-the-art Royal Marines hovercraft have been sold to the Pakistan Navy in a government-to-government agreement, Defense Equipment & Support (DE&S) has confirmed.
Previously operated by 539 Assault Squadron Royal Marines and withdrawn from service in 2021, the Landing Craft Air Cushion (Light), or LCAC(L), has been refurbished and transferred to the Pakistan Navy as part of the UK’s initiative to provide surplus military equipment to partner nations.
These hovercraft, capable of operating over both land and water, are well-suited to Pakistan’s coastal geography. They will be used for shallow-water patrols, amphibious support, humanitarian relief, and rapid deployment operations.
The vessels were prepared for delivery by Griffon Marine Support, based in Southampton, under contract with DE&S. Griffon Marine Support will also provide ongoing in-service support for the hovercraft under a direct agreement with the Pakistan Navy.
Commodore Richard Whalley, Head of Exports and Sales at DE&S, stated that the transfer builds on a long-standing defence relationship with Pakistan. He noted that providing these proven assets supports the Pakistan Navy’s coastal and amphibious operations, contributes to global security, and benefits the UK’s defence budget.
A spokesperson for the Pakistan Navy described the acquisition as part of a broader strategic partnership with the UK, highlighting ongoing cooperation through joint exercises, training, and defence acquisitions. The spokesperson added that the new hovercraft will enhance Pakistan’s maritime security and its capacity for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.