A new police boat has been unveiled for Hampshire's marine unit.

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has funded the new rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) called Defender.

Defender boasts highly advanced protective and tactical capabilities, enabling the force to face threats at sea robustly, even during severe weather conditions.

It is equipped for lengthy ocean searches and boarding of vessels of various sizes.

The advanced design of Defender provides officers with an increased ability to patrol and attend to incidents across the Hampshire and the Isle of Wight's 287 miles of coastline.

Crewed by the Marine Support Unit of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, the new vessel is also available to support all of the inland waterways of the Thames Valley force area.

Should the need arise, neighbouring forces such as those in Kent, Sussex, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall, can request the new vessel's assistance.

Defender has been designed to comfortably host armed officers, police dogs and negotiators, simultaneously providing a swift response.

Ms Jones said: "The introduction of the new RHIB, Defender, marks a significant advancement in our maritime policing capabilities.

"The Solent is one of the busiest commercial shipping areas in Europe and is renowned for recreational sailing and boating, with strong maritime communities.

"By investing in this state-of-the-art vessel, I am ensuring that officers are equipped with the best tools to protect the Hampshire and Isle of Wight coastline and beyond.

"Defender not only enhances the Constabulary’s ability to respond to incidents quickly and effectively but also reinforces my commitment as your Commissioner to maintain safety and security on our waters in this unique region of the UK."

Chief Constable Scott Chilton added: "The addition of the Defender to our fleet is a game-changer for the Marine Support Unit.

"This high-speed boat is a testament to our dedication to safeguarding our coastal and inland waterways.

"This new capability is allowing us to better serve our communities, take the fight to organised crime and support neighbouring forces when needed, ensuring we are prepared for any maritime challenge."