SAPOL's Water Operations Unit has welcomed a new vessel into its fleet – Police Launch 2.
Police Launch 2 replaces Police Launch 3 – Ron Jeffrey, which has been with the Water Operations Unit since 2007 and is now being replaced.
The vessel is 8.6 metres long and was constructed by South Australian marine business Nautic Star, based at Lonsdale.
The boat features a state-of-the-art navigation system, diesel inboard engine, forward looking infra-red for improved search capability and has capacity to transport up to eight crew members.
Police Launch 2 will be primarily used in the Gulf St Vincent area but can be deployed anywhere across South Australia. It will be used for search and rescue, marine compliance, general patrol and dive operations.
Commissioner of Police, Grant Stevens said that this vessel is a welcome asset to the Water Operations Unit providing enhanced capacity to keep South Australians safe.
"Many Australians love our waterways and oceans, but there is always an inherent risk that something can go wrong. Police Launch 2 provides another layer of capacity to respond to emergency situations, as well as for general patrolling to ensure that people are doing the right thing in our waterways," Commissioner Stevens said.
Minister Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Vincent Tarzia, said the new watercraft is impressive kit.
"Nautic Star has delivered another high-quality, South Australian-built vessel that will help save lives," Minister Tarzia said.
"SAPOL's new search and rescue boat is equipped with the latest technology to respond to emergency situations with full capability on the water."
A Vessel Commissioning Ceremony was held today at the Police Academy and included a traditional champagne pour over the vessel.
Above: Police Launch 2 in action
