OFFSHORE RAIDING CRAFT

The new Royal Marines Offshore Raiding Craft.
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The Offshore Raiding Craft (ORC) is a relatively new addition to the Royal Marines' inventory. The ORC is designed for commando insertion/extraction and fire support missions along coastlines and river networks.

The 9 meter-long ORC has an aluminium hull with a low enough draft to allow for safe, rapid beach insertions. Unlike soft-skinned RIBs, ORCs have removable armour plating that offers ballistic protection (small arms up to 7.62mm) for the boat's occupants. 2 crew and up to 8 fully-equipped Royal Marines can be carried on a set of upright seats.

When in fire support configuration, the ORC can also carry an array of weaponry. Flexible mounts allow for combinations of:

• 7.62x51mm GPMGs
• .50 HMGs
• 40mm GMG Grenade Launchers
• smoke dischargers

The ORC can be air-transported inside C130 Hercules transport planes or carried as an under-slung load by Chinook and Merlin helicopters.

Up to 46 ORCs will eventually be in service with 539 Assault Squadron Royal Marines. It's not publicly known whether the Special Boat Service are/will be using the ORC.

The ORC is manufactured by Holyhead Marine

Offshore Raiding Craft Specifications

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