When terrain fades and the line between land and sea blurs, few platforms can match the versatility of a hovercraft. For the Pakistan Marines, tasked with operating in the muddy creeks and tidal flats of Sindh’s coastal belt, the Griffon 2400TD is the ideal machine for the job — swift, amphibious, and reliable.
Built for the Impossible
Developed by Griffon Hoverwork Ltd. (UK), the 2400TD is the evolved variant of the proven 2000TD series. It was designed to perform demanding tasks in extreme conditions — from disaster zones to contested coastal regions — without sacrificing speed or payload capacity. The hovercraft’s reinforced hull and segmented skirt system allow it to glide effortlessly over water, sand, mud, and even shallow obstacles up to 0.7 meters high.
Powered by twin diesel engines, the 2400TD delivers a top speed of 35 knots, a range of 225 nautical miles, and an impressive endurance of 9 hours, giving operators both reach and persistence. With a payload of 2.4 tonnes, it can transport 17 fully equipped troops or mission-specific cargo with a crew of just two.
Operational Edge
What sets the 2400TD apart is its adaptability. Its operational sea state of up to 4 means it can handle moderate waves and rough coastal conditions — a critical factor for littoral missions where conventional boats struggle. Its ability to “fly” over tidal mudflats and mangrove terrain makes it indispensable in Sir Creek, where conventional vessels risk grounding.
For the Pakistan Marines, these hovercraft serve multiple roles:
- Troop and logistics transport across tidal and marshy zones
- Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in flood or storm-hit areas
- Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) during humanitarian missions
- Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) in coastal emergencies
Mobility Meets Endurance
In essence, the Griffon 2400TD bridges the operational gap between land vehicles and patrol boats. It brings the agility of a fast boat, the reach of an aircraft, and the endurance of a light armored platform — all in one amphibious package.
Deployed primarily along Pakistan’s southern coastline, the 2400TD gives the Marines a unique littoral advantage — allowing them to maneuver, supply, and rescue where no other vehicle can tread.
