21/04/2026
We are thrilled to announce the successful sale of our BHT-130 series hovercraft, the Solent Express, to Caspian Offshore Construction (COC)!
Soon to be renamed the Caspian Eagle, this vessel has a proud history as a reliable, high-capacity passenger ferry. Now, it’s gearing up for a brand new chapter supporting offshore marine services in the North Caspian Sea.
Here is what the Caspian Eagle will be tackling in its new role:
• Critical Offshore Support: Providing emergency standby cover, personnel transportation, and evacuation services for vital oil and gas infrastructure.
• Extreme Environments: Operating seamlessly across shallow waters, mudflats, and ice, braving temperature extremes from -35°C in the winter to +40°C in the summer.
• Unmatched Versatility: Utilizing its amphibious capabilities to navigate the region's fluctuating sea levels and safely deliver rapid response times in remote, hazardous locations.
The Caspian Eagle won’t be alone on this mission. It is joining its sister craft, the Caspian Falcon (formerly Suna X), which has been successfully operating in the COC fleet for the past nine years. Together, these two BHT-130 variants will support offshore energy operations in one of the world's most demanding marine environments.
This redeployment perfectly highlights the incredible adaptability and durable engineering of our fleet. From coastal passenger ferries to complex offshore operations, Griffon Marine Ltd hovercraft are built to deliver reliable performance anywhere on earth.
Congratulations to the team at COC! We look forward to seeing the Caspian Eagle in action.
https://www.griffonmarine.com/news/solent-express-sale/