Twiga reveals advanced 920 gun boat at AAD 2024 expanding maritime patrol options.

At this year's Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition, Twiga demonstrated its growing presence in the maritime defense sector with the debut of the 920 Gun Boat. This new vessel represents a significant addition to Twiga's existing lineup of rugged military patrol boats, further broadening its capabilities for high-speed interdiction, counter-piracy, and anti-smuggling operations.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Twiga's 920 Gun Boat at AAD 2024, South Africa. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

Designed for riverine, lake, and close-to-shore missions, Twiga's 920 Gun Boat stands out with its ability to carry three 12.7 mm machine guns, offering increased firepower compared to earlier models. This development is part of a larger trend in Africa, where conflicts along water borders have escalated, driving demand for more powerful and heavily armed patrol boats.

Twiga’s boats are built for durability and versatility, with hulls made from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) that can endure harsh conditions for over 20 years. The material is not only cost-effective to maintain but also resistant to damage from ballistic impacts, with tests showing that the hulls can withstand fire from various calibers without risking the boat’s integrity.

The 920 Gun Boat complements Twiga's other models, including the 850 series, which has seen operational success in South Africa. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries utilized Twiga's 850 Rugged Patrol Boat for anti-poaching operations along the Western Cape. The boat's reliability and effectiveness earned it the nickname "Black Ghost," becoming a key asset in countering illegal crayfish poaching across both the West and Eastern coasts.

Twiga’s vessels have proven adaptable across different mission profiles, whether for logistics, humanitarian aid, or combat support. The company is also exploring partnerships with other South African firms to integrate advanced technologies like drones and observation systems, which can further enhance their boats' operational flexibility.

With a growing portfolio of vessels, Twiga has already made a mark beyond South Africa’s borders. Uganda's People's Defence Force, for instance, has integrated Twiga’s 850 and 1050 boats into their fleet, reinforcing the platform's appeal across the continent. As Twiga continues to develop new models, including several in the design phase, the company is positioning itself as a key player in addressing Africa’s evolving maritime security needs.