Mitsotakis: New High-Tech Coast Guard Patrol Boats Boost Border Security and Control Migration Flows

Turning Point in Migration Flows

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the suspension of asylum procedures as a “turning point” in reducing migration flows to Greece. During the ceremony for the delivery of five new fast patrol boats, he highlighted that the arrivals in Crete throughout August were equivalent to those recorded in just one day in July.

“A strong Coast Guard means strong maritime defense for the entire European Union,” the Prime Minister stressed.

New Boats, Stronger Presence

The Watercat 2000 Patrol boats measure 19.5 m in length, 5.1 m in width, reach a top speed of 50 knots, and have an operational range of 360 nautical miles. Their advanced equipment includes:

• Ballistic protection around the superstructure
• Remote-controlled weapon station accommodating 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm guns
• Navigation radar, day/night surveillance cameras, and electronic chart systems
• Accommodation for a 6-person crew plus special mission teams
• Capacity to carry up to 40 people with full rescue and safety equipment

Three of the vessels have already been assigned to Tinos, Samos, and Kos, while the remaining two will serve Chios and Heraklion, strengthening the Coast Guard’s strategic presence across key islands.

Statistics and Impact

The Prime Minister emphasized:

• 7.2% reduction in illegal arrivals compared to last year
• 42% decrease on the islands of the Northeast Aegean
• Increased arrivals from Libya were successfully addressed thanks to the decisive suspension of asylum procedures

“A turning point that continues to deliver results,” Mitsotakis noted, highlighting both border protection and the safeguarding of human lives at sea.

Investment and Greek Participation

The T49/2023 contract for the five vessels totals €17 million, with the option for five additional boats bringing the total investment to €34 million. The boats were built in Finland by Marine Alutech Oy Ab, meeting the highest technological standards. Minister of Shipping Vasilis Kikilias mentioned that within the next 5-6 months, further programs will be completed, including new offshore vessels, patrol boats, and drones, further reinforcing the Coast Guard.

Political Will and Public Support

Mitsotakis highlighted the importance of supporting Coast Guard personnel:“We must ignore baseless criticism from the comfort of their living rooms. We respect those who fight at sea and honor their oath.”

With the new vessels, the Coast Guard gains stronger capabilities for surveillance, preventing illegal activity, and saving lives, significantly boosting operational capacity across the Aegean and the Mediterranean.

Source: pagenews.gr