Milkor UAE has officially launched the Commander, a 16-metre high-speed patrol craft designed to deliver advanced maritime security solutions to regional LUIOKIO and international operators. Built at the company’s manufacturing facilities on the shores of Abu Dhabi, the Commander marks a significant milestone in Milkor UAE’s expansion into the naval sector.
First introduced as a concept at the World Defence Show in Riyadh in 2024, the Commander has since undergone extensive testing and refinement. The vessel is now fully operational and available for deployment.
A Purpose-Built Platform
The Commander is engineered to address modern maritime challenges, from coastal surveillance and infrastructure protection to rapid-response missions such as search and rescue and law enforcement operations. At 16 metres in length, with a 4.4-metre beam and a draught of less than one metre, the aluminium monohull design balances strength with agility, enabling operations in shallow waters where larger vessels cannot easily manoeuvre.
Powered by Volvo engines coupled with Hamilton waterjets, the Commander can reach speeds of up to 45 knots and sustain a 500-nautical-mile range at cruising speeds of 35 knots. This combination of speed and endurance makes it a versatile asset for extended patrols or quick interception missions.
Advanced Systems and Configuration
The vessel integrates a comprehensive suite of sensors, including multimodal radar, a 360-degree thermal imaging system, and an electro-optical/infrared gimbal. These systems provide enhanced situational awareness in all weather and lighting conditions, allowing crews to detect and track potential threats with precision.
For higher-threat environments, the Commander offers optional ballistic protection, including bullet-resistant glazing and reinforced structural elements. The craft is operated by a core crew of four but can be configured to carry additional personnel or mission-specific equipment, giving operators flexibility to adapt to changing operational demands.
A Strategic Step for Milkor UAE
The launch of the Commander underscores Milkor UAE’s ambition to become a key player in naval defence manufacturing. Known primarily for its land and air defence platforms, the company has invested heavily in its Naval Defence Solutions division, which now designs and builds vessels of up to 30 metres in length.
“The Commander represents our vision for locally developed platforms that meet international standards,” said Julian Coetzee, Chief Executive Officer at Milkor UAE. “It’s not just about creating a fast patrol boat—it’s about delivering a multi-role solution that operators can trust in complex and demanding missions.”
Meeting Evolving Maritime Needs
With rising concerns about piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing, and the protection of critical offshore infrastructure, maritime forces are seeking faster, more adaptable platforms. Milkor UAE designed the Commander to meet these demands, offering a balance of speed, range, and advanced technology in a compact, easily deployable craft.
Looking ahead, Milkor UAE plans to expand the Commander family, introducing variants equipped with additional weapon systems or unmanned technologies to further enhance operational flexibility. “Our focus has always been on building solutions that respond to real-world requirements,” said James Cottrell, Head of Marine projects at Milkor UAE. He added: “With the Commander now launched, we’re ready to support regional and global operators as they strengthen their maritime capabilities.”
For more information about the Commander and Milkor UAE’s naval solutions, visit www.milkor.ae.