Soldiers Train with American Instructors for SOC-R Vessels

According to hirado.hu the Hungarian Defense Forces (MH) are bolstering their fleet with new high-speed boats equipped with exceptional firepower to be utilized by operational groups. American instructors will train the future crews to operate the new vessels. The expected date of delivery is May 2024.

Drawing on lessons from the Vietnam War, U.S. soldiers launched a river rapid landing craft for commando operations on the flooding Tisza at the training area in Szentes (southern Hungary).

Part of a two-week joint training course that started at the end of February, the SOC-R-type (Special Operations Craft – Riverine) vessels used at that time were from the U.S. Army. However, the Defense Forces will soon possess similar vessels, with three set to arrive this spring, two of them refurbished.

The boats will be provided free of charge by the Americans, with the only costs to be paid being for refurbishment and transportation.

The ongoing training aims to prepare Hungarian soldiers to operate the new type effectively.

Sándor Virágos-Kis, squad commander, explained that “The main focus of these two weeks is on the handling, maintenance, commissioning, troubleshooting, and training of the riverine and its combat operations. This includes day and night exercises, beaching, landing, and recovery of special operations groups, even when in direct firefight with the enemy.”

Fact

The SOC-R (Special Operations Craft – Riverine) is designed for fast travel and sharp maneuvers. It is equipped with a crew of eight, .50 caliber machine guns, and is armor resistant up to 7.62 x 39 rounds. It is propelled by water-jet engines that accelerate the vehicle up to 40 knots (about 80 km/h).

U.S.- Hungarian Military Exercise Being Held with Armored Vessels

The Special Boat Team 22 from the United States will pass on their knowledge to the Hungarian soldiers.Continue reading

Via hirado.hu; Featured Image: honvedelem.hu