These crafts are built by Australian-based Sentinel Boats and are set to be deployed by HMNZS Matataua, part of the RNZN’s Littoral Warfare Force, aiming to aid in delivering divers, troops, and mine counter measures during military operations around coastal waters.
Commander Trevor Leslie, the commanding officer of HMNZS Matataua, indicated that these LMCs are expected to assist in coastal operations and the tactical insertion of diving and hydrographic specialists, with an additional reconnaissance capacity and the potential for international deployments.
A notable feature of the Sentinel 1250 crafts is their hull construction, made of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), differing from the traditional fibreglass or aluminum. This material choice is aimed at reducing maintenance, as it doesn’t require painting and is expected to be more resistant to corrosion or degradation from electrolysis.
These boats are powered by twin Cummins QSB6.7 engines rated at 550hp each, with Twin HJX29 Hamilton Jet Units for propulsion, enabling speeds of over 40 knots. Each LMC has a length of 12.6 meters and a beam of 3.73 meters.