Germany orders 15 coastal combat boats from Finland

The German Navy has ordered 15 combat boats for coastal operations from Marine Alutech, the Finnish combat and fast patrol boat builder.

Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has signed a contract for 15 Watercat M18 AMC multi-role combat boats for the German Navy’s Seebataillon naval infantry force.

The agreement covers build and delivery of the vessels, training, documentation, accessories and life-cycle support.

Around 20 metres long, the Watercat M18 AMC is designed to provide tactical mobility in coastal waters and near-shore environments. Its shallow-water capability and high-speed performance are intended to support troop transport, patrols, combat operations, evacuation and command duties.

A key feature is an integrated bow ramp, enabling personnel and equipment to be loaded and unloaded directly onto shallow beaches. This allows the vessels to support rapid landing operations without relying exclusively on established port infrastructure.

The boats are based on Marine Alutech’s military-off-the-shelf (MOTS) platform, which supports different equipment integrations for multiple mission requirements. The design is already in service with the Finnish Navy, which has operated the type since 2014.

The German order adds to the platform’s use by NATO members. Lithuania is also adopting Watercat M18 AMC vessels for specialist operations along its Baltic coastline. Finland, Lithuania and other participating countries are involved in the Common Fleet of Multi-Role Assault Craft (CFMAC) development and procurement programme, which provides a framework for further European and NATO participation.

The procurement is intended to strengthen the Seebataillon’s ability to operate as mobile infantry both afloat and ashore, with vessel-based mobility forming a key part of its coastal operating concept.

Marine Alutech is a Finnish family-owned specialist in professional and government vessels, covering design, construction, maintenance and life-cycle support. Founded in 1985, the company reports more than 550 vessels designed and manufactured, with production facilities in Finland and Germany.

Deliveries of the 15 boats are scheduled between 2029 and 2031.