Vessel Arrest
Launchers
A portfolio of pneumatic vessel stopping launchers for maritime vessels, helicopters and UAVs — on inland and open water operations.
Borne from a 2003 UK Government programme
The Vessel Arrest Launcher was developed under a 2003 UK Government programme to intervene and stop vessels underway. Since then the product has matured into a comprehensive portfolio of pneumatic launchers suited to a wide range of maritime platforms — from hand-held units to remote-operated mounted systems.
Constructed from aluminium and stainless steel with hard-anodised components, each launcher is built for robust use in the maritime environment. The system can be fully immersed in seawater and delivers multiple deployments from a single compressed air charge. Multiple payload applications are available from each launcher, making it a highly versatile tool across maritime operations.
Built for the most demanding environments
Intrinsically Safe
Compressed air power eliminates the risk of flash, heat, and noise associated with pyrotechnic alternatives — safe for confined spaces and aviation platforms.
Seawater Submersible
Every launcher is built to withstand full immersion in seawater. Aluminium and stainless steel construction with hard-anodised components for maximum corrosion resistance.
Multiple Deployments
A single 300bar compressed air cylinder delivers multiple shots without recharging. The manifold-upgraded boat mount variant delivers up to 25 deployments per charge.
Four launcher systems.
Every operational scenario covered.
The H40 is completing trials and delivering above and beyond expected capabilities to TRL8. A lightweight, pneumatic powered hand-held tool deploying vessel stopping entanglement devices, interception lines, climbing lines, ladders, rescue lines and water rescue equipment.
The H63 is the most deployed model in the Vessel Arrest Systems portfolio — proven in the field with numerous operators. Available in hand-held VA10 Kit configuration or deck-mounted VAS-BM boat mount. The H63 was presented by Lord West in August 2009 as the approved boat stopping launcher from the multi-year Home Office programme.
Developed to counter high-speed vessels requiring greater standoff and longer entanglement devices to stop larger engines. The M63 can be mounted anywhere on a vessel to suit the operator, and is integrated with a remote control unit or configured for autonomous maritime platforms. Proven in unmanned operations room environments — information available on request.
The M100 offers long range and variable control, allowing operators maximum standoff capability during very high speed interceptions. All M100 systems are remote controlled with auto reset, and suited to both manned and unmanned vessels. Available in single or multi-barrel configuration.
The first launcher certified for Olympic protection
The Vessel Arrest Launcher is the first launcher developed and certified for use by law enforcement and military to protect an Olympic Games. Vessel Arrest Systems delivered 50 launchers to UK Police with layered project management, training, and through-life support.
The launcher was developed in conjunction with a multi-year programme with the UK Home Office and government stakeholders, and was formally presented by The Rt Hon. the Lord West of Spithead GCB DSC in August 2009 at the UK Home Office Contest Counter Terror Strategy launch.
UK Government Programme
Development begins under Home Office mandate for vessel intervention capability.
Home Office Approval
Presented by Lord West as the approved boat stopping launcher from the multi-year Home Office research programme.
Olympic Games
50 launchers deployed to UK Police for maritime security at Weymouth during the London 2012 Olympics.
Vessel Arrest Launcher training programme
Launcher Training
Live simulation training with Vessel Arrest Systems training products that replicate real deployment without damaging vessels. All training delivered by a Vessel Arrest Systems trainer.
Tactical Boat Operations
Small boat operations are inherently dangerous. Vessel Arrest Systems has evolved small boat pursuit tactics and maximises simulation with VA training accessories to deliver real-time realism.
Train the Trainer
Comprehensive train-the-trainer programme based on the Vessel Arrest Systems Tactical Boat Training Manual. Contact Vessel Arrest Systems to review available courses.