New AFP vessel sails into service
Editor’s note: Images of the boat is available via Hightail
The AFP is expanding its on-water presence with the commissioning of a purpose-built 9 tonne boat at Garden Island on Sydney harbour.
The new 11 metre vessel is the second to enter service in the Sydney harbour, joining the 9.5 metre boat leased from ACT Policing and brought into service in April 2021.
The new vessel will be used by Protective Services Officers (PSOs) maintaining a security presence at Kirribilli House, Admiralty House and the Garden Island Defence Precinct.
In a ceremony on Wednesday 8 February, AFP10 was officially named and will be ready to enter service from next week.
AFP Superintendent Protection Operations Mark Baron said the new boat will allow for a timely security response at AFP designated locations in Sydney harbour.
“Our officers are currently undergoing deckhand and coxswain training boosting the number of existing AFP members who are qualified to pilot and crew our watercraft.” Superintendent Baron said.
“The new vessels add an exciting element to our protective service capabilities and really extend the breadth of work that our PSOs can expect to face in their day-to-day roles.”
The AFP provides a uniformed protection service at defence establishments and designated official establishments. PSOs are trained to deter, detect and respond to criminal and national security threats.
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