Norco Composites & GRP was selected by Marine Specialised Technology Group (MST) as a key supplier in the delivery of 18 new high-speed patrol vessels for the Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) and Gibraltar Defence Police. This multi-year project, valued at £36 million, forms part of the MOD’s modernisation programme to enhance maritime security around key naval infrastructure.
Norco was contracted to manufacture the composite hulls and superstructures for each of the 15-metre patrol boats, supporting MST’s final assembly and outfitting process. This long-term collaboration demonstrates Norco’s capability to deliver precision-engineered composite solutions to the highest defence standards.
The Challenge
MST required a reliable partner to supply large, lightweight composite structures that could meet stringent performance, weight, and durability requirements. The vessels are designed to patrol naval dockyards and coastal areas, requiring exceptional speed, stability, and resilience in demanding maritime conditions.
Each patrol craft needed a fully moulded hull and wheelhouse structure capable of supporting complex systems integration, while maintaining strict weight limits to ensure optimal performance.
Our Solution
Norco’s Composites & GRP division, based in Poole, Dorset, led the delivery of the composite structures. Key deliverables included:
• Bespoke mould tools for the 15m patrol hull and superstructure
• Resin-infused GRP hulls, wheelhouses, bulkheads, and decks
• Precision engineering to meet tight weight tolerances and structural specifications
• Modular structures optimised for MST’s streamlined assembly process
• Close working relationship with the customer and surveyor to ensure the quality
Using advanced vacuum infusion techniques, Norco produced each vessel hull with consistent quality, minimising resin waste and ensuring superior strength-to-weight performance. Early engagement with MST and BMT (the projects design partner) allowed Norco to support the design for manufacture process, ensuring efficient, repeatable builds across all 18 vessels, whilst driving down cost and weight.
Results
• First Hull Delivered: March 2022
• First Vessel Launched: October 2022
• Ongoing Production: Norco is supplying composite structures on a rolling basis through to 2026
• Impact: Enhanced maritime capability for MOD Police across the UK and Gibraltar
By successfully meeting project milestones, Norco has enabled MST to deliver vessels on schedule and to specification. The composite structures provide outstanding durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term reliability in harsh marine environments.
Why NORCO?
• Proven Defence Supplier: Previous success on MST’s Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron vessels (HMS Cutlass and Dagger)
• Technical Expertise: In-house tooling, precision infusion, and composite engineering
• Repeatability: Consistent, high-quality production across a multi-year delivery programme
• Strategic Value: Supporting UK defence manufacturing and protecting naval assets
Looking Ahead
As Norco continues to supply composite structures for the remaining patrol craft, the project stands as a flagship example of British manufacturing excellence in the defence sector. This collaboration reinforces Norco’s position as a trusted partner for large-scale marine composites and lays the foundation for future defence and security projects.