Maritime Squadron News

Maritime Museum of San Diego to ceremonially welcome Vietnam War-era Swift Boat P24, September 18, 2012, restoration work to follow. The event, to be attended by 35 Swift Boat Veterans and Mayor Jerry Sanders, among other dignitaries, takes place at the Museum located at 1492 Harbor Drive in downtown San Diego. It marks the first public appearance of the vessel acquired in July from the Republic of Malta. P24 was originally donated by the United States Navy to Malta’s Maritime Squadron in 1971. It continued in service to that country until being retired in 2010.

Austal has completed its first European defense contract following the commissioning of four 69.5-ft inshore patrol craft for the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM). The aluminum vessels have a maximum speed of more than 26 knots and will assist the AFM with surveillance and border protection throughout Malta’s coastal waters. “The modern and cutting-edge technology coupled with the best accommodation facilities will also provide a better working environment for the crew,” Prime Minister Gonzi said.